movie review podcast script

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How to write podcast scripts: Tips and templates to structure your episodes

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A great podcast might sound or look effortless, but there’s a lot of prep work that goes into the show before the host hits “record.” A key component of that prep work is a podcast script.

A podcast script is an outline or sketch of what takes place during your episode. It’s not like a movie script, where every word and scene are mapped out and strictly adhered to. Rather, it’s a set of guardrails that keeps your show focused while also leaving room for spontaneity. Podcast scripts can be as minimal or as detailed as you want, depending on the type of show you have, your experience level, and how much structure you prefer. Podcast scripts can put your mind at ease while recording since you know in advance what you’ll talk about. They also give your show structure, which helps you maintain a consistent style that listeners will grow to love. Sticking to a script can even shorten your editing time because you won’t be straying into off-topic conversations, which you might then remove. If you’ve never written one before, don’t sweat it. This guide has all the templates and tips you need to write well-structured podcast scripts, no matter what kind of show you create.

‍ Podcast script elements

The specifics of podcast scripts vary depending on whether you host a solo show, interview guests, or have a co-host. However, there are some basic podcast script elements that most creators should be familiar with:

• Intro: A short message that welcomes your audience, introduces you (and your co-host, if you have one), and top-lines what you’ll discuss in two to three sentences
• Guest introduction: A few sentences explaining who your guest is and why they’re joining your show
• Segue/transition: A spoken phrase or sound effect that indicates a new segment of the episode
• Recap: A brief summary of the main ideas you discussed in the episode
• Outro: A message that marks the end of the episode, whether that’s a simple “thanks for tuning in” or a catchphrase you’ve developed
• Call to action (CTA): Favors you ask of your listeners, such as subscribing, rating, reviewing, or sharing on social media

Now it’s time to assemble these elements into a podcast script.

How to write a podcast script: Solo show

If you host a show by yourself, podcast scripts are a great way to prepare your talking points in advance so you don’t have to gather your thoughts mid-episode. Before you start writing, take a minute to consider: What are the main points I want to convey in this episode? Once you identify those, the smaller details can flow from there. Let’s say your podcast is about running, and you’re planning an episode where you talk to listeners about choosing the right pair of shoes. Organize your thoughts in your script document, starting with the main points and progressing to supporting points. Here’s what that could look like:

• Main point 1: Determine your running routine
• Road running vs. trail running
• Running mileage
• Main point 2: Your fit preferences
• Shoes for flat feet vs. arched feet
• Shoes with more/less cushion
• Main point 3: Price
• Budget-friendly shoes for beginners
• More expensive shoes for advanced runners
• Recap: Routine, fit preferences, price
• CTA: Share this episode with a friend and follow on Twitter for running tips ‍

How to write a podcast script: Interview show

Podcast scripts for interviews can boost your confidence going into the show knowing you’ll have plenty to talk about. But they’re equally important to put your guest at ease, so they know what to expect—at least loosely. Outlining your interview questions in advance ensures you’ll cover all the questions and topics you want to address. As many hosts can attest, it’s easy to drift off-topic during an engaging conversation. Consider sharing your questions with your guest ahead of time, so you stay on the same page throughout the episode—pun definitely intended. If your conversation sparks some impromptu questions, that’s great! The script is there, so you have a basic foundation to work from (or fall back on if the conversation isn’t as free-flowing as expected). Maybe you host a podcast where you interview founders of female-owned businesses. You have the founder of Kayleigh’s Cake Pops coming on the show. Here’s what your script might look like:

• Guest introduction: Today’s guest is Kayleigh Smith, the founder of Kayleigh’s Cake Pops. She recently won an award for XYZ, and she’s here to tell us how she turned her side hustle into her main hustle within a year.
• Main topic 1: Background info
• Backstory behind the business
• Why cake pops?
• Main topic 2: Entrepreneurial mindset
• How did you know you were ready to run your business full-time?
• What was your biggest obstacle in that transition phase?
• Main topic 3: Growth
• How do you scale and still maintain a quality product?
• Is there such a thing as getting “too big?”
• Recap: Revisit three to four of Kayleigh’s best points
• CTA: Rate and review the show and make sure to visit Kayleigh’s website ‍

How to write a podcast script: Co-hosted show

If your podcast has multiple hosts, loosely scripting your episodes is a great way to make sure your talking points are distributed evenly and that you don’t interrupt or talk over each other. The key is mapping out the main segments while leaving room for free-flowing conversation. Think of it as a crossover between a solo podcast script and an interview podcast script. Perhaps you co-host a movie-review podcast, and you have an upcoming episode about a (fictional) movie called Penelope in Paris.

‍ Your podcast script could look something like this:

• Intro: Overview of movie, including release date, lead actors, director, etc.
• Main topic 1: Favorite scenes
• Host #1 thoughts
• Host #2 thoughts
• Main topic 2: Weak areas of the movie
• Main topic 3: Our official ratings
• Host #1 rating and final thoughts
• Host #2 rating and final thoughts
• Recap: Pros and cons of the movie
• CTA: Subscribe so you never miss a movie review!

3 tips to level-up your podcast scripts

No matter your podcast’s format or genre, these tips will help you write top-notch scripts, so your show can reach its potential.

1. Put all your ideas on the table

Writing in script format might feel awkward at first, especially when you’re buzzing with ideas. Set aside your podcast script template and jot down all of your thoughts and questions in a separate document. Once all the pieces are there, you can identify the main points and assemble them into a script.

2. Annotate your podcast script

Your audience won’t see your podcast script, so feel free to mark it up with notes to yourself like “dramatic pause here” or “emphasize here.” These little reminders will help your delivery feel more natural.

3. Add estimated timestamps

Timestamps help you define how long you’ll spend on each segment of the show, so you can stick to your desired episode length. For example, you might allocate five minutes for each interview question and two minutes for your recap.

Preparation: The invisible ingredient for podcasting success

Whether you have the gift of gab or you’re still building confidence behind the mic, podcast scripts provide the structure you need to create content that’s polished, focused, and engaging. Organization is important for podcasting, but so is speaking from the heart—and when you balance both, you’ll create a show audiences love.

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10 Controversial Star Wars Sequel Trilogy Theories I Would Have Loved To See

10 most ridiculous mcu fights we still can’t believe happened, shrek concept art transforms princess fiona into live-action human form.

There is no denying that it was a pretty rough year for movies, as many of the most highly anticipated releases shuffled off to future dates in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. But what the past year proved is that when a high-quality movie review podcast exists, it will be relevant through all the hoops and hurdles presented by the industry.

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The following podcasts have some of the most genial and thought-provoking hosts around, who make the kinds of shows that listeners want to take with them wherever they are. These creators are unmatched in the podcasting medium and their shows are made even more special when they review movies on a weekly basis.

Filmspotting

Filmspotting is a podcast that is perhaps best-known in Chicago, but it has risen to greater prominence in recent years. Hosted by Josh Larsen and Adam Kempenaar, it's the perfect pod for people who want to be part of a film community and stay up to date on must-see new movies that reach for something a bit more.

Filmspotting is not averse to popular films, but they always give attention (sometimes through their "Golden Brick" award) to more under-the-radar films. Plus, they are always levying Criterion-esque reappraisals to classic films through their top five lists, Sacred Cow treatments, specific analyses of a year in film, and the annual Filmspotting Madness tournament.

The Rewatchables

As the name suggests,  The Rewatchables also dabbles in movies that came out in the past. As things tend to go on The Ringer, though,  The Rewatchables takes a fun look at classic movies by evaluating them through categories like the "Dion Waiters Heat Check Award" and "Apex Mountain," with its evergreen confusion.

With hosts like Bill Simmons, Van Lathan, Chris Ryan, Sean Fennessey, and Amanda Dobbins usually in the mix, the panel allows for celebrity guests ( Quentin Tarantino swung by for three films) and Ringer staffers (Liz Kelly's take on  Country Strong is an all-timer) who can deviate from the occasional  Rewatchables rut. Stick through the  Total Recall slog for great moments like  The Martian ,  Toy Story , and  Home Alone  all being covered in the same season.

The Weekly Planet

These Australian podcast hosts, Mr. Sunday Movies and Nick Mason, make for inherently lively listening, and  The Weekly Planet  is the perfect podcast for movie fans who love a quality blockbuster.

The Weekly Planet is largely about comic book movies , but they dabble in all sorts of big-budget affairs, including  Star Wars and  Army of the Dead . They never take themselves too seriously, though, and they're among the funniest movie critics working today.

Ratchet & Respectable

The beauty of  Ratchet & Respectable is that it does not adhere only to reviews of movies. That's part of it, though, and writer, critic, and all-around savant Demetria L. Lucas has reviewed films like  Soul and  Coming 2 America .

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However, she also explores many other facets of culture. This includes reviews of music and television, but her show's identity also extends to the hot button topics of today and occasional interviews with some of the industry's most interesting figures. Ratchet & Respectable is like a waystation for culture.

The Empire Film Podcast

Across the pond,  The Empire Film Podcast   is one of the best movie review shows for newcomers to the medium because it has a little bit of everything, including movie reviews, movie news discussions, and interviews with some of the top talents around.

After all,  Empire has access to some of Hollywood's best and brightest, solely based on its reputation for loving movies, rather than just loving to critique movies. Hosts Chris Hewitt, Helen O'Hara, and James Dyer are also funny and intelligent, which means there are never moments of cringe, which goes a long way during the interview segments.

Whether it's the string-laden, easy-listening tunes that introduce the  Spoilers! podcast or the booming voice of Spoiler Man that ends it, there is always the feeling that listening to this movie review podcast is like coming home. Granted, that's also demonstrated by the camaraderie of the hosts, who all have long tenures of friendship and fun with one another.

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But it's also just emblematic of how lovely and engaging a free-flowing, loosely structured movie podcast can be.  Spoilers! dabbles in round-table, extracurricular pods and episode-by-episode reviews for television just as much as it does movie reviews. But it's the niche finds, like  The Castle  ( a classic Australian film ) and  The Snowman , that keep fans coming back just as much as the multi-part  Lord of the Rings series.  Spoilers! is enchanting and it has something for everyone.

Black Men Can't Jump [In Hollywood]

From Forever Dog,  Black Men Can't Jump [in Hollywood] recently eclipsed the 300 episode mark and it's only gotten better over the years. The podcast is a movie review series that dips into the archives for older films, in tandem with up-to-date movie reviews and industry/award analysis.

What helps set  Black Men Can't Jump apart is that the pod reviews movies through a highly contextual lens with Hollywood's history of diversity problems at the forefront. Not to mention, hosts Jerah Milligan, James III, and Jonathan Braylock are just great fun to listen to.

The /Filmcast

It should come as no surprise that Slashfilm has one of the best movie review podcasts out there. Hosted by David Chen, Devindra Hardawar, and Jeff Cannata,  The /Filmcast embraces the traditional model of movie reviews: weekly coverage with check-ins at the top, a "What Are You Watching?" segment, and a critic guest.

These three have been friends for a long time (including some college time in Amherst) and that chemistry comes across so strongly as to be appreciated by listeners. Nothing is more fun than when the trio finds a movie they love and are highly passionate about. Nothing, that is, except for Jeff's limericks.

The Big Picture

Returning to the movie coverage side of The Ringer,  The Big Picture is easily the best movie podcast on the network and one of the best movie podcasts ever made. Hosted by Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins,  The Big Picture began as an Oscar race analysis/filmmaker interview podcast and has evolved into something giddily unruly.

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When Sean and Amanda aren't stressing about the future of the Academy Awards or movie theaters, they're ranking their favorite movie twists, drafting movies from 2015, and building the Nancy Meyers Hall of Fame. It's every movie nerd's dream.

Blank Check With Griffin & David

Coming in at the premiere position is  Blank Check with Griffin & David . What began as a podcast to break down  The Phantom Menace has evolved into an ever-gestating miniseries about directors' filmographies. Usually, Griffin Newman, David Sims, and producer Ben Hosley are fascinated by filmmakers who received a blank check they either cashed or bounced on the big stage.

Some of their best miniseries include Brad Bird, Nora Ephron, and Ron Musker and John Clements. Currently, they're covering John Singleton with John Carpenter (and, hopefully, Gore Verbinski ) to come. But while #TheTwoFriends have become a podcasting staple and internet favorite, it's their ever-expanding cast of guests, who become honorary connoisseurs of context, that make the pod so special. It's a beautiful combination of silly bits and insightful analysis (Griffin's assessment of why Barry Jenkins' direction on  Moonlight is still so memorable) and it's the peak of movie review podcasts.

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• Best Podcast Reviews

The 20 Best Movie Podcasts (for every film buff)

Last updated on January 26th, 2021

Unless you were a film fanatic, historically, movie chat has ranked up there with talking about weekend plans or the weather: exactly the type of fodder you need to survive the office/first date/dinner with the in-laws. But now there is new hope! Wax eloquent like Roger Ebert or A. O. Scott with these movie podcasts. More importantly, and more seriously, film podcasts are changing representation by giving a voice to the communities and issues that have, for too long, been marginalized or purposefully ignored. From deconstructing filmic tropes and challenging assumed histories to just laughing along at some really terrible movies, there are shows for everyone, from the Hollywood hopeful and the cinephile to those just trying to make it through a family dinner unscathed. Here are our favorite movie podcasts for film fans.

1. Scriptnotes

For aspiring screenwriters, listen to John August and Craig Mazin’s Scriptnotes , a weekly movie podcast that dives into all things “interesting to screenwriters.” While not claiming to be much, this film podcast is a treasure-trove of information, with hundreds of episodes a year and an enormous archive. On air since 2011, the early episodes cast a close look at the nitty-gritty of script writing: not just the common pitfalls of screenplays or if an idea is movie-worthy, but also the Bechdel test and inequality in Hollywood. The guestlist is star-studded, with everyone from David Koepp to Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Melissa McCarthy stopping by to discuss the craft and creation of movies. Recurring segments like the Three-page Challenge let hopeful screenwriters send in the first pages of their scripts for on-air critiques. 

Listen : Apple Podcasts | Stitcher | Spotify

If your approach is more expansive than obsessive, then film critic Amy Nicholson has you covered. Each episode begins with a single film, say Downtown Abbey or A Star is Born , and then Nicholson steers you on a rollercoaster ride from there. ZOOM is teeming with history, science and politics, and Nicholson is a nimble driver: in her recent look at portrayals of the British monarchy, she began with a dramatic description of the decapitation of Mary Queen of Scots in Thomas Edison’s short film The Execution of Mary Stuart from 1895. I didn’t even know that Edison made films, and for what it is worth, that beheading with the first recorded use of special effects in the movies. 

Listen : Apple Podcasts | Stitcher

3. The Rewatchables

From the team behind The Ringer (so you know it will be hilarious) comes The Rewatchables , which is exactly like it sounds: Bill Simmons and a rotating series of hosts “discussing movies they can’t seem to stop watching.” The co-hosts humorously break down each movie into its ‘most rewatchable scenes’ as they remember their initial viewings and evolving interpretations. Context, it seems, is everything and often, these guests are shocked by how far they’ve come as viewers. The movie podcast is witty and quick, the pop culture conversation you wish you were having at a bar. 

4. You Must Remember This

Accolades pour in for You Must Remember This , the best podcast for all things old Hollywood, the secrets, scandals and forgotten histories. The episodes clock in under an hour and are all written, produced and narrated by Karina Longworth, an all-out wunderkind who somehow does everything and more in just 24-hours. Each episode’s narrative is a captivating, mind-blowing and meticulously researched feat of film journalism. The upcoming season of You Must Remember This focuses entirely on Song of the South , the 1946 hybrid animated and live-action film from Disney which was set on a post-Civil War plantation. Since it was released over seventy years ago, the film has been criticised for promoting racial stereotypes and was never released on video. So, Longworth wants to know: “what is Song of the South, and why did Disney make it?”

5. Denzel Washington Is the Greatest Actor of All Time PERIOD

Hollywood heavy Denzel Washington has acted in over thirty films, not to mention countless television programs and Broadway plays, and Denzel Washington Is the Greatest Actor of All Time PERIOD is a fan account co-hosted by two unabashed Denzealots. Although it is no longer on the air, comedian W. Kamau Bell and writer Kevin Avery made Denzel Washington Is the Greatest Actor of All Time PERIOD comic gold. Joined by guests like Chris Chalk and Vincent D’Onofrio, the hosts wax poetic about their favourite actor of all time as they attempt to prove their titular premise. Tackling each movie in alphabetical order, they rank  the star’s performance by its Denzelishness, a scientific system consisting of five elemental truths: the Denzel walk; humor; his badass self; the Denzel lip; and his “his trademark move that consists of a sort of George Clooney head wobble coupled with narrowed eyes.” Come for the mancrush, stay for the laughs. 

6. How Did This Get Made? & Unspooled

Ever wonder why that fourth movie in the horror franchise was made? Or what actually happened in the latest Tom Cruz action adventure? Well, How did this get made? might not have an answer, but certainly you will find yourself laughing along with hosts, the actors and comedians Paul Scheer, June Diane Raphael and Jason Mantzoukas, as they attempt to untangle the thorny plots of terrible films. They aren’t particularly discriminating in what they examine, and have looked at such cinematic delights as Anaconda , From Justin to Kelly , and My Stepmother Is an Alien . If you love the comedy but are hoping for something slightly more highbrow, in 2018, Scheer launched a new podcast, Unspooled , this time aimed at Hollywood’s all-time greats. Despite being a self-proclaimed movie buff, Scheer realised he shockingly hadn’t seen many of the anointed classic films. Co-hosted with Amy Nicholson of ZOOM , Scheer has been making his way through the American Film Institute’s Top 100 movies, hoping to uncover “what makes classics like Citizen Kane and Taxi Driver so special.” 

How Did This Get Made? Listen : Apple Podcasts | Stitcher | Spotify

Unspooled Listen : Apple Podcasts | Stitcher | Spotify

7. Still Processing

While not explicitly a podcast about film, Still Processing from the New York Times is definitely worth a listen, or many listens. The podcast is hosted by the paper’s culture writers Jenna Wortham and Wesley Morris, who together reckon with culture in all its diverse incarnations as they try to come to grips with with contemporary America. Each episode is chatty and compelling, focussing on a different subject from Get Out and alternative histories perpetuated by the media to J. Lo’s triumphant performance in Hustlers . Richly confessional, Morris and Wortham chat like true friends, and in revealing their insecurities, biases and crushes, they outline the messiness of processing the world. See their recent conversation about Oscar winner Green Book which skillfully connected the trial of Jason Van Dyke to racial reconciliation fantasies and the documentary Surviving R. Kelly.  Culture, it seems, is never an isolated industry.

8. Black on Black Cinema

Black on Black Cinema is a nuanced look at the Black film industry. Zigzagging in time from the 2019 release of The Watchmen back to the 1974 blaxploitation action classic, Three the Hard Way , our three hosts, Jay, Micah and Terrence, thoughtfully consider the role of Black film today. Given that Hollywood has long discriminated against Black actors and filmmakers, theirs is a trenchant and supremely relevant conversation. But despite the weight of the topic, don’t think that Black on Black Cinema is devoid of humor, and these hosts know how to mock and goad one another. On air since 2012, the podcast is produced weekly, so the back catalogue  is worth perusing. 

9. The Qwipster Film Review Podcast

For straight up film reviews that are always more than just recaps, check out Vince Leo’s The Qwipster Film Review Podcast. Leo covers everything from Marvel blockbusters to indie films in smart, fun-sized episodes that are each about ten minutes long. Jampacked with information, The Qwipster Film Review is nevertheless filled with thoughtful, quippy commentary just as its title suggests. These are perfect for your commute to work, or when you need something smart to say in the office kitchen. 

10. Cinema Clash

Maryland-based film-critic Charlie Juhl and part-time reviewer and full-on fanatic Hannah Buchdal debate new releases in Cinema Clash. Often covering multiple films an episode, the podcast is an unedited, riotous conversation about the plusses and hazards of contemporary cinema. That both have vastly differing opinions – Juhl favors everything obscure and overlooked, while Buchdahl LOVES mainstream movies – makes for an exciting listen and rowdy debate. 

Listen : Apple Podcasts

Movie Podcasts Honorable Mentions

• The Cine-file
• Double Toasted
• Podcast Like It’s 1999
• Hollywood Babble On
• Filmspotting
• Kermode and Mayo’s Film Review
• I Was There Too
• This Had Oscar Buzz

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How to Write the Perfect Podcast Script (plus Examples & Templates)

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Think of a podcast script like a roadmap to guide you from the start to the finish of your episode when recording. They can be as detailed as you like, and if done well can help with the flow, structure and direction of your podcast episodes.

Podcast scripts are used by both new and experienced podcasters, and not only help with the flow, structure and direction but also to avoid situations where your mind goes blank and you end up repeating yourself or don’t quite know what to say next.

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What are podcast scripts?

Scripts vary in everything from length to density to content depending on the podcaster, but in essence they’re all the same – a list of topics and ideas you want to communicate to your listeners in a given episode, with added facts, research and reminders of certain things you want to mention: your intro, main body, outro, call to actions etc.

Scripts allow you to refresh your memory at a glance and illustrate how your points build off one another to make your episode sound cohesive. There’s nothing worse than listening back to your episode and realising you missed a link between two ideas!

Should you use podcast scripts?

In short: it depends.

We’re sorry but there is no definitive answer when it comes to whether you should or shouldn’t use a podcast script. It all depends on you as a podcaster and the type of podcast you have eg solo, cohost, interview etc.

Some podcasters worry that scripting their episode will remove spontaneity and chemistry between themselves and their guests, but you don’t have to write down every word if you don’t want to – a basic outline will do the job for most people.

There are benefits to using a script: you can go pretty in detail for your intro and outro – if these are the same for each episode, it builds familiarity with your audience. They come to expect your podcast name, tagline and your calls to action, so ensuring they’re there in the script means you’ll get them right every time.

Here’s an example:

“ Hello and welcome to [show name] , I’m your host [your name] . [Show tagline/catphrase]. Today we’ll be talking to [guest name] about [topic]. If you’re a fan of the show, please do remember to [call to action: follow on socials, leave a review etc.].”

Check out this video where our MD Mark Asquith goes into a little more detail about where or not you should use a podcast script:

Are podcast shows usually scripted?

The absolute majority of podcasts will have a script in some form. This varies on the preference of the podcast creator: some prefer a few brief bullet points, whereas others like to have their whole episode scripted out down to the last detail.

There’s no right or wrong way to script your show, it’s just preference – if you’re good at improvising and enjoy going off on a few tangents, stick to simple notes, but if you tend to crumble under the pressure of a live mic you’d be better suited to scripting out the finer details.

One way or the other, you’re better off with some kind of script!

How long are podcast scripts?

The length of a podcast script depends entirely on the show itself, the episode and the preferences of the podcast creator. For a half hour episode, some creators will have pages of dense text to read verbatim, whereas others will have half a side of A4 with some bullet points to riff off. It’s just what works for you!

What to include in a podcast script

As mentioned above, we think it’s best to fully script out your podcast intro and outro each time, so you hit on all the required points and achieve consistency throughout your body of work.

How to start your podcast (what to include in your intro )

• Your podcast name
• Your podcast tagline or catchphrase
• Your episode number and title
• The name(s) of any guests
• The name and details of your sponsors, if you have them
• What this episode is about
• Your Calls To Action (CTA) – seasoned podcast listeners might skip your intro and outro so make sure that you include your most important CTA in the middle of your podcast episode.

Starting a podcast script example

“Hello and welcome to the [PODCAST NAME], I am your host [NAME]. Thanks for tuning in [TAGLINE or CATCHPHRASE]. This is [EPISODE NUMBER] and the title of today’s episode is [TITLE]. I am pleased to be joined by [GUEST], [GUEST BIO]. This episode is about [TOPIC]. Before we crack on with today’s episode just a reminder of how you can support the podcast [CTA].”

What to include in your main script body

This is where we like to leave it more to your discretion as again it depends on you as a podcaster and the format of your show. Whether you’re just writing a few notes or scripting the whole episode, you need to include:

• The ideas or topics you’re discussing in the episode
• Some indication of these ideas build upon one another and link together
• Try to think of questions you would have as a listener and answer these
• Think about the structure and flow of your episode eg what is the end goal, what do you want listeners to take away from listening? What subtopics are you going to cover, do they flow naturally?
• Make sure to not repeat yourself – make new valid points and then move on to your next point

How to end your podcast (what to include in your outro )

• Summarise what you have spoken about in your episode
• Thank your listeners for tuning in
• Let them know when to expect new episodes
• Your CTA again – this could be asking them to follow or subscribe, follow you on social media, download a resource etc.
• Include your show notable eg a notable thing about your podcast. This is not your show title, tagline, intro or outro music, it’s something else listeners remember about your show. The best way to do this is by having a catch phrase – sounds cheesy but it works! Mark’s podcast, Excellence Expected, taught business founders how to achieve success. His catchphrase (which he ended every episode with) is as follows, “the more you expect from yourself the more you will excel.” 

People got so familiar with it that when he had guests on his show, they would finish his catchphrase!

Ending a podcast script example

“That’s all we have time for! Thanks for tuning in to this week’s episode. Today we covered [SUMMARISE]. We’ll be back, in fact you can expect new episodes every [DAY] [TIME]. Quick reminder again of how you can support the podcast [CTA]. [SHOW NOTABLE]. Take care everyone, and until next time!”

Podcast script outline template

Let’s take a look at what would go into the perfect podcast script, something which hits everything necessary to prime your episode for audience connection and growth.

• Intro music – some podcasts play the intro music later in the episode eg after the introduction. Intro music should play for a maximum of 10 seconds before listeners hear the content. Listeners have tuned in to listen to you, not your music.
• Introduction – name and what the show is, who you are and what you’re talking about in this episode. You can also say your tagline and if you have guests, this is where you’d introduce them.
• Call To Action(s) (CTA(s)) – these could be internal eg download lead magnets, leave a review on Podchaser, follow the podcast on social etc and external eg if you have a third-party sponsor or have an affiliate agreement.
• Stinger – A stinger or bumper is a short piece of music that can be used in between podcast segments.
• First discussion point – introduce it with background and context, making sure listeners can follow along. Build your points up like a narrative, with Who , What , Where and When first and then into the deeper, more nuanced stuff when listeners have a grip on the basics.
• Second stinger
• Second discussion point
• Third stinger
• CTA(s) – a reminder of the earlier CTA(s).
• Third, fourth, fifth points etc (depending on how long your show is), using stingers in between.
• Outro – this is your podcast episode wrap-up and the key takeaways from this week’s episode. Remind listeners to check your show notes for additional resources and links. Thank any guests you had this week and your listeners for tuning in. Tease what listeners can expect from the next episode.
• Outro music

How do you write a podcast script?

Now you know what to include in your intro, main body of the episode and outro, you should have some idea of how to write your podcast script. Remember, it can be as detailed as you like. Do what feels the most comfortable for you.

For example if speaking and podcasting is new to you, maybe having a detailed script will help. Just a word of caution – listen back to yourself and make sure it still sounds natural and not like you’re reading off the page.

However, if you are more comfortable with speaking and podcasting, you don’t necessarily need to go into much detail. Just have enough detail so you know the flow, direction and what you want to say and when. Also helps you to not forget certain things to mention.

If you would like more assistance in writing your podcast scripts continue reading as for examples and templates to use.

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Podcast script tips for beginners

1. write how you would speak.

The point of your podcast is to get your voice out there. The problem is, a lot of people see writing as a more “formal” medium than speaking, so when it comes time to write out a podcast script, they end up going for a more businesslike, professional tone than they would usually like to.

Keep it nice and conversational, flowing and easy – more like a chat with a friend than an email to a stranger. This may sound obvious, but make sure to keep it in mind when you put pen to paper. Whether you’re a hobbyist doing a podcast for fun or a small business wanting to attract more customers, this will help you to build a genuine connection with your audience.

2. Give context

If you’re writing a more minimal, bullet-point style script, make sure your notes actually mean something to you when you read them back. People often write their scripts a few days in advance, so make sure you’re making coherent notes that will actually be useful to you when you’re trying to read them on mic.

3. Allow yourself some space

Your podcast script should guide and help you, not confine you. Give yourself the space within your script to elaborate, riff on an idea, tell a little anecdote. Your podcast should be fun, not rigid and uniform. This tip applies especially to those writing out their script verbatim, but it’s one to keep in mind for everyone.

4. Use segue phrases

To make the flow of your episode more natural, it’s a good idea to use little phrases that pivot the conversation naturally from one topic to another. This will help avoid anything feeling rushed – it’s super simple to do, just something like:

“Okay, now we’ve covered the tensions at the Abbey Road sessions, George’s feeling undervalued and John and Paul’s differing musical visions, let’s talk about the day that The Beatles actually split up”.

Key script segments

Let’s look at some of the key elements that should feature in any podcast script.

This one’s pretty self explanatory – your introduction should cover what your podcast is about, who you are and a nice little catch phrase you say every time. It should then go into what this episode will cover.

A nice transitional phrase to move you from one area of discussion to another in a natural way.

A CTA, or Call To Action, is something you’re asking listeners to do. Common ones are to sign up to an email list, leave a positive review or follow you on social media.

4. Sponsor message

Essentially an advertisement – if you’re sponsored by a product or service, this is where you tell your listeners about it.

5. Subtopics or key talking points

Separate your main episode topic into subtopics or key talking points. This will help to give your episode structure, and make sue you don’t miss any key elements.

6. Key takeaway(s)

Remind listeners what they have learnt listening to this week’s episode, and give them key takeaways. Articles have conclusions, podcast episodes should be the same. Summarize what you have discussed.

You should wrap up every podcast episode, and remind listeners of the podcast they have been listening too, and your (the host’s) name. Thank listeners and any guests you have, and don’t forget to tell people to check out the episode show notes for any links or resources.

Short podcast script example

Here’s a short podcast script example for you to use or get inspiration from:

[Opening Music]

Host: Welcome to [PODCAST NAME], the podcast that [PODCAST DESCRIPTION]. I’m your host, [HOST NAME], and in today’s episode, we’ll be [EPISODE TOPIC & DESCRIPTION].

[Transition Music]

Host: I am excited to talk about [EPISODE TOPIC]. [EPISODE TOPIC] is important because [EXPLAIN WHY], and after listening to this episode you will [BENEFITS]. This week we have a great guest joining us to talk about [EPISODE TOPIC]. Our guest is [GUEST NAME] who [GUEST BIO].

Host: Thanks for you joining the podcast [GUEST NAME].

Guest: It’s an absolute pleasure, thanks for asking me to join you, and I can’t wait to talk about [EPISODE TOPIC]

[MAIN PODCAST CONTENT] – host asks the guest a series of questions and follow-up questions, and responds to answers.

Host: We’re going to take a short break, join us for part 2 where [GUEST NAME] will be discussing X, Y and Z.

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Host: Welcome back for part 2, [GUEST NAME] let’s dive straight back in.

Guest: I can’t wait to discuss more about [EPISODE TOPIC].

[MAIN PODCAST CONTENT] – host asks the guest a series of questions, and follow-up questions, and responds to answers.

Host: Sadly, [GUEST NAME] we have run out of time. Thanks so much for an excellent podcast episode, it has been really interesting and great to chat with you in detail about [EPISODE TOPIC].

Guest: Thank you for having me, it’s been awesome to join you for an episode of [PODCAST NAME]. Hopefully what has been discussed today is helpful for your listeners.

Host: And that is a wrap! Sadly we’re at the end of another [PODCAST NAME] episode. Thanks for listening, and I really hope you enjoyed this week’s episode. The main takeaway for me was [MAIN TAKEAWAY]. Check out the episode show notes as there’ll be links to resources about today’s topic, and [GUEST NAME] social media links. Don’t forget that you can [CTA 1] and [CTA 2]. Again link in the show notes for more information. We publish new episodes every [PODCAST RELEASE SCHEDULE]. Until next time [PODCAST TAGLINE].

Podcast script real-life example

Ok, enough explanations – let’s look at some real life examples. We’re going to be using the script used for our own podcast, Captivate Insider . Let’s take a look at Episode 26:

Here’s the intro script Garry used:

Hello there and welcome to Captivate Insider. This is episode 26, I hope you are keeping well and safe and that you are smashing through your podcast goals for 2022 so far. 

My name is Garry, I’m the Head of Design here at Captivate and I’m your host. Each week I’ll take you behind the scenes of what’s going on here at Captivate, talk about some industry news and give you some tips and pointers to make sure that your podcast is rocking and rolling.

This week, I’m joined by Danny who heads up our User Experience and Support team. He’s been on the show before and this week, Danny and I are going to be talking about how to grow and retain your listenership by keeping them engaged.

Notice how this part is nicely scripted out to ensure all the main points (podcast name, host name, episode number and topic, guest name) are hit? 

Here are Garry’s notes for the main part of the episode:

Questions/Discussion Points

• Back in episode 6, we spoke about how we approach and view user experience here at Captivate from a high level. Does your view of our user experience values (timely response, openness, quality communication etc) remain the same even when dealing with those difficult user problems?
• We pride ourselves on being open and honest when dealing with user issues, the reasons and the benefits of that approach are obvious, but is it a challenge to keep that mindset “topped up”?
• In today’s world, users know a lot more than ever before. Some users are experts in the industry and really know their onions with podcasting, others are at the other end of the scale and maybe just starting their journey into podcasting. How do you find approaching the users along that scale of expert to newbie?
• On the subject of honesty, openness etc, we have a great role model in that area – our MD Mark is a big advocate of “honesty is the best policy” – he led from the front recently as we started to notice some areas for improvement needed in our analytics and a couple of other places in the platform, reaching out personally to our users and addressing the subject on our recent Q&A live stream. Does that give you the confidence to approach any issue?
• We’re an inclusive team at Captivate, how does your exposure to the platform and features, along with maintaining the Captivate Insider newsletter, help get users the correct information and help?
• We don’t get it all the time and we certainly don’t expect it but when users compliment you on a job well done, does that make life in user experience that bit easier to navigate on a daily basis?
• For others working in user experience or good old “customer service”, either within our industry or elsewhere and are listening to this episode, can you give us a few tips on how to maintain a high level of quality through honesty and openness?

Given that Garry had a guest, Danny, he wrote down all the questions he was going to ask on the episode and shared them with him. He then used these questions as a base for the podcast, which kept the conversation moving and was loose enough to allow for any tangents and new ideas that may arise during the course of a discussion like this one.

This is probably the best way to script a podcast episode with multiple people, as it ensures the conversation doesn’t lull while also allowing a natural conversation between the two speakers.

Garry’s outro.

Being a seasoned podcaster, Garry didn’t script his outro – he knew he needed to simply thank the audience, and his guest and hit the podcast’s main CTA, which is to get people to try Captivate. Let’s take a look at a transcript to see how he did that:

Thank you very much again to Danny for taking the time to chat with me and part with some experienced views and thank you for listening to another episode of Captivate Insider.

If you’re not using Captivate yet to power your podcast, you can do that with a free trial. Just head over to captivate.fm/signup, pop your deets in there and sign up to everything, nothing is locked behind a pay wall or anything. Get full access to all of our features for seven days, kick the tyres, see what you think, and I’m sure you’ll be impressed so you can get your podcast up and running in no time and get it to where you want it to be .

If you’ve got a podcast somewhere else if you’ve got it hosted with another hosting company, that’s all good but if you’ve been thinking about having a bit of a change up and you wanna look at another host, then it’s really quick and easy to import your podcast into Captivate. And again, you have everything available to you for free for seven days. So go and check that out at captivate.fm/signup and give that a go.

Until next week and episode 27, take care of yourselves and happy podcasting.

He kept it loose, conversational and friendly. By the time you’re getting to your podcast outro, especially if you’re a more experienced podcaster, you’ll likely be in the zone, so it’s less essential to script out verbatim than your intro.

If you’re newer or less confident behind the mic, though – script it out! There’s no shame in having it to fall back on.

Free podcast script templates

Script for a solo show.

[Intro music]

Hi and welcome to _____, I’m _____. This is episode ___, and we’ll be discussing ___. If you’re a fan of the show, please do follow us on ____.

[This is the first point you’re going to discuss in your episode. Make sure it’s all clear and relevant!]

Transition into…

[Ideas should build on one another, each feeling like a natural continuation of the previous one, building on concepts explained earlier on.]

[Break during the episode which includes your most important CTA OR a message from your sponsors]

Ideas 3, 4, 5…:

[Just repeat the process until your episode topic is covered to the degree you wish to go to.]

[Conclude what you have spoken about] And that’s it! Thanks so much for listening, this show really wouldn’t be possible without you. If you’re a fan of the show, please leave a review on Podchaser (or similar CTA) – the link is in the show notes.

Until our next podcast episode remember [podcast notable].

[ Outro music ]

Script with a Co-Host

Co Host  1: Hi and welcome to _____, I’m _____. 

Co Host  2: And I’m _____. This is episode ___, and we’ll be discussing ___. If you’re a fan of the show, please do follow us on ____.

Co Host 1: Now let’s get into it!

Co Host 1: [Conclude what you have spoken about] And that’s it! Thanks so much for listening, this show really wouldn’t be possible without you. If you’re a fan of the show, please leave a review on Podchaser (or similar CTA) – the link is in the show notes.

Co host 2: Thanks, [ Co Host 11 ], and thanks to everyone listening at home. Until our next episode, remember [podcast notable].

[Outro music]

Interview style script

Host: Hi and welcome to _____, I’m _____. I’m joined today by [ Guest ], an expert in _____ to discuss _____. Hello, [ Guest ], and thank you for joining me today!

Guest : Thanks [ Host ], very happy to be here.

Host: Awesome! Let’s get right into it. First, though, if you are a fan of this podcast, please do follow the show on ____!

Question 1:

[This is the first question you’re going to ask your guest. Start with background info, more basic stuff, and then build up to their more specific knowledge]

[ Important! You should be reactive as an interviewer – respond to guests’ answers and allow the conversation to build off of their responses. Don’t just blindly read off your questions, it’s not engaging for listeners. Keep the conversation flowing but also be mindful of not straying too far off course, keep control of your interview by bringing your guest(s) back into your planned questions.]

Question 2:

[Questions should build on one another, each feeling like a natural continuation of the previous one, building on concepts explained earlier on.]

Questions 3, 4, 5…:

Host: And that’s it! Thanks so much for listening, and thank you to [ Guest ] for joining me today, make sure to check out their ____ which is releasing soon

Guest: Thanks, It’s been great to be here.

Host: Where can people find and connect with you?

Guest: Connect with me on… 

Host: Until our next episode remember [podcast notable] – [podcast tagline] .

How to nail your podcast script

Like anything, you probably won’t get your script perfect the first time. If you’re not used to it, you may sound a bit clunky or you may fluff up reading off the page.

But don’t worry: keep at it! Ask for feedback from listeners and friends and experiment with what works for you. If you find reading a full script hard, try an episode with just notes, and vice versa.

Pro tip: Try including your CTA in your intro for a few episodes and record how many listeners actually commit to it. Then try the next few episodes with that same CTA in the outro – that way you can work out where it generates the most engagement.

You can use Captivate’s Attribution Links to track how many times a given link is clicked, meaning you can empirically see which placement is best.

This is called split testing, and is super common in the marketing world!

Captivate features that will help you to nail your scripts

Of course, we’re all podcasters ourselves, and we know it’s not easy to get that script perfect. With that in mind, we’ve designed our features to help you with this!

Episode Planning

Our amazing Episode Planning features allow you to create an episode script within Captivate, collecting Research Links to tie in to your episode along the way.

Once you’ve planned out your episode within the Captivate Dashboard, keep that script in front of you while recording your episode in your DAW. Then, once your episode is recorded, you can upload the mp3 file and attach it directly to the episode idea to turn it into a live podcast episode.

Player Customization

When you’re reading out your Calls to Action, it won’t be a big ask for your listeners – you can include quick links to your social media apps and directory links directly within the embeddable Captivate player!

Increasing the ease of a CTA makes it more likely that your listeners will actually do it – all you’re asking them to do here is click on something already on their screen!

Podcast script FAQs

• Should I include keywords?

Yes, if you have done keyword research for your podcast episode (and we recommend everyone does this) definitely include the keywords in your script. This is a great way to ensure that you are mentioning phrases in your episode that people are actually searching for in search engines like Google. 

Google has been transcribing and indexing podcasts since 2019, so doing this increases the chances of your podcast episode being shown to people when they search for relevant terms.

Word of caution – be careful with adding keywords as you still want your podcast episodes to sound natural, plus keyword stuffing just doesn’t work. It annoys both people and Google.

Read more about podcast SEO . 

• Should I keep it simple?

For first time scripters, it’s certainly a good idea to try just bullet points first – many find a full script too constricting at first. Simple bullet points of all the ideas you want to hit are a great place to start!

• Do I need to do a dry run?

Consensus is split on this one – if it’s a solo show, a dry run certainly wouldn’t hurt, but it could kill the chemistry if you’re working with another presenter or an interviewee. You don’t want it to sound like you’re going through the motions, and listeners will be able to tell if you’re really excited about something and having the conversation for the first time.

• Check out the transcripts of other podcasts, as this is a quick and easy way to see what kind of scripts other shows are using.
• Ask your friends! See if any of your podcaster friends will share their scripts for previous episodes so you can see how they built up their episodes.
• Use the templates in this article – we’d love to know if our templates helped you create your scripts! Let us know on Twitter.
• Ask in our Facebook group : there is a massive community of Captivate podcasters at your fingertips, sharing expertise and questions, with daily interaction from the Captivate team, too!

Pro tips for podcast scripts

• Avoid saying ‘Subscribe or follow wherever you get your podcasts’!

We hear a lot of podcasters say something along the lines of ‘subscribe or follow wherever you get your podcasts’. Not giving listeners an easy action to complete is asking too much of them, as you are leaving it up to them to go and find your show in their preferred app and then click subscribe or follow.

If you use Captivate you can send people to your single promotional link . This is a URL (www.domain.com/listen) that you can mention when recording and include in your show notes, and has links to your show in all major podcast playing platforms. It’s easy for people to remember, so they are more likely to do what you ask them. 

• Don’t over do it with CTAs – it’s good to have a range, but stick to one or two per episode. 

The more CTAs you include in your podcast episode, the less likely people are going to take action. It’s good to test out a range across your episodes, but when recording a specific episode stick to one or two.

The more times a listener is reminded of one action, the more likely they are to do it. There’s a well known rule in marketing that consumers have to be exposed to a message or idea at least 7 times before they take an action. If you ask people to do too many things they will easily forget and not end up doing what you want them to. 

If you are a Captivate user you can use Captivate’s Attribution Links to track the efficacy of your different CTAs, to see which ones perform best.

• Use notables

A show notable is something memorable about your show – not your name, art or music, more of a catch-phrase. It’s something that will spring to mind for listeners whenever your show is mentioned, and it’s great for building familiarity with your audience.

A great example is from one of my personal favourite shows, ‘ Philosophize This ’. It has the super simple notable of “ Thank you for wanting to know more today than you did yesterday ”.

• Mention that it’s free to follow or subscribe – some people think that you have to pay to follow or subscribe to podcasts . Easy way to combat this is to mention that it’s free to subscribe and follow, whether that’s in your notes, during recording or in your social media posts.

Scripting out your episode will make sure it’s the best it can be, with nothing forgotten in the urgency of recording. Just as every podcast is unique, the way each podcaster writes out a script will be unique, too – whatever works for you is just as valid as the next person’s. 

Did you find this article helpful? Check out, ‘ Write an Engaging Podcast Description that Turns Scrollers into Listeners ‘.

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Top Movie Podcasts You Can't Miss

The /filmcast.

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Scriptnotes

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Filmspotting

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You Must Remember This

This is not just a podcast; it's a time machine. Created and hosted by Karina Longworth, You Must Remember This takes you back to the first century of Hollywood. With expert storytelling, the podcast dives into forgotten scandals, landmark films, and the stars who made the industry what it is today.

Blank Check with Griffin and David

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The Ringer’s The Big Picture is helmed by film critic Sean Fennessey, who dives into movies old and new. With interviews from directors, writers, and other key players in the film industry, this podcast offers not just reviews but a holistic look at movie-making.

The Projection Booth

The Projection Booth podcast, hosted by Mike White, goes way beyond the mainstream in its film choices. Offering up a mix of new releases, cult classics, and forgotten gems, this podcast is ideal for those looking for a deeper cut in their movie consumption.

Kermode and Mayo's Film Review

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How to Stream Movies for Free

While podcasts offer a deep dive into the world of movies, the first step is actually watching these films. Many of the movies discussed in these podcasts are available for streaming, and guess what? You can even stream some for free. Check our recommended list of best free movie streaming sites here.

Roll Credits: Wrapping It Up

Whether you’re a casual moviegoer or a hardcore cinephile, podcasts offer a window into the world of cinema that is both enriching and entertaining. These podcasts provide varying perspectives, from breaking down bad films to exploring Hollywood’s golden history. And now, with insights on how to stream movies for free, you've got no excuse to miss out on the films these podcasts are talking about. So, grab your headphones and get ready to dive into a universe of cinematic wonder.

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How to Write a Podcast Script [8 Free Script Templates]

Effective communication is a foundational part of a podcast's success. Creating an episode script before you record your podcast is a simple way to prepare for your recording sessions so you can convey your message clearly and concisely.

Using a podcast script can also:

• make podcast recording and editing more efficient
• reduce excessive rambling or pauses
• help guest interviews go smoothly

In this guide, we break down the essential elements of a good outline and share template options so you can create your own podcast script!

• Basic podcast script template example

Common podcast script elements

8 podcast script examples, podcast script best practices, podcast script template example.

Before you write your own script, it can be helpful to have a podcast script example PDF to give you a starting point.

In this example, each section includes a spot for your main podcast topics, segment duration, key points, and sponsor ads placed at the beginning, middle, and end of the episode.

You can download our printable podcast outline template PDF, or an easy-to-edit Google Doc template so you can customize your own podcast script! Just copy and paste the Google Doc template into your own Google Doc file to make edits.

Scripting podcast segments is a great way to add structure to your show, even if the rest of the episode is ad-libbed.

Here are some common elements you can use to customize your own template.

Your podcast intro lets you give listeners an overview of the episode up front and helps you capture your audience's attention at the outset.

The content of this segment will change from week to week, but the structure shouldn't vary much.

Example : "Hello and welcome to [podcast title], the show that [insert concept of show or tagline]. I'm [host name].

In today's episode, we will discuss [insert talking points] with [guest name]. We'll discuss the ins and outs of [episode topic] and offer listeners a special surprise at the end. Be sure to listen all the way through for the details!"

Guest intro

Jotting down some basic facts about your podcast guest helps establish rapport and get off to a strong start.

Example : "Our guest today is [guest name]. They are a [insert role, title, experience] with a passion for _______.

They're going to share with us [episode topic]. Hi, [guest first name]! Thanks so much for joining us!"

Sponsor message

Sometimes podcast sponsors give hosts a script to read from verbatim, and other times the host crafts their own sponsor message.

It's important to create a quality sponsor message that kicks your show off well, reflects your sponsor's brand, and sounds natural.

Example : "[Your podcast name] is sponsored by [insert brand name]. [Sponsor] is a company that [describe company values and products as well as their relevance to your audience]."

A well-placed segue can make your podcast flow between topic changes and help create a cohesive episode. Segues can be a phrase, sound effect, or musical jingle.

A good summary recaps the main points of your episode for listeners.

Most podcasts cover a lot of information in one episode, and listeners appreciate it when hosts reiterate the key takeaways.

You can use this section to make announcements, give a teaser for your next episode, play a closing jingle, or share resources to help listeners.

Example : "Next week, we'll continue to help you frame your podcast by helping you nail down the details that will give structure to your new podcast! [Outro music]."

Call to action (CTA)

A call to action is an announcement that requires action from your audience. You can ask listeners to follow you on social media, leave a rating or review, etc.

The content of your CTA will change over time based on your sponsors, show content, and current merchandise.

Limit your call to action to one clear thing you'd like from your audience. More than one CTA can overwhelm listeners.

Example : "Want to ask a question on a future episode of "Podcasting Q&A"? Click on the link in the show notes to record your question in a voicemail! [Outro music]."

Podcast scripts vary based on the type of podcast you have. Use these script templates as a guide, and make changes to suit your own podcast format !

#1. Minimalist or freestyle

If you enjoy ad-libbing, a basic list of questions might be all you need.

These scripts don't take much time to make and can provide just enough structure to get an episode off the ground.

A loose episode structure also makes for easier editing since the "mistakes" naturally fit with the style of your show.

#2. With a cohost

We strongly recommend using a script if you record with multiple podcast hosts .

A script ensures you and your guest don't talk over each other, get confused about what's coming next, forget key points, or confuse listeners.

#3. Fully scripted

A word-for-word draft is an excellent option for audio dramas and some solo shows, but it takes practice to learn the art of reading a script naturally.

Try to write in pauses, laughs, and off-script comments to avoid sounding stilted. This delivery style doesn't allow for many mistakes and can add time to your editing in post-production.

#4. Solo-host

Many solo podcasters (especially beginners) find it saves time and energy to make a detailed outline.

Under each main point, include relevant key points, supporting data, and anecdotes. If you choose this script style, stay conversational, and try not to read your notes verbatim.

This outline gives you enough structure to make recording easier but is casual enough to allow for verbal slip-ups.

#5. Interview-style

A good podcast interview requires preparation. This script can help you keep a free-flowing, conversational tone with your guest.

Email your guest your outline a week or so before the interview so they have plenty of time to prepare. Tell them what questions you plan to ask, and craft your script around those questions.

#6. Q&A

#7. tutorial or how-to.

Podcast episodes that feature tutorials involve a lot of steps with important details you don't want to forget.

#8. Roundtable

Roundtable podcasts feature three or more cohosts and can easily get off the rails if you don't have an outline.

This guide can help keep your episode in line through banter and various podcast segments !

Follow these tips to optimize your script and streamline your workflow!

Do keyword research

Using a keyword research tool is a powerful way to get inside your listeners' minds. You can type your episode topic into one of these tools to see what questions your audience has about it.

• Answer the Public
• Google Trends
• Keyword Generator

Use dictation software

Some people prefer to dictate their script rather than write it out. Here are some free speech-to-text tools we like:

• Google Docs Voice Typing Tool
• Microsoft Dictate

Keep it simple

Try to keep your podcast template as simple as possible unless you need a word-for-word script.

Most podcasters find that a flexible script is enough to keep them focused while still speaking in a natural, clear way.

Add delivery notes

Delivery notes indicate how to present your written content, like where to add emphasis or pause for effect.

These notes can be helpful to make a fully scripted episode sound more natural.

Do a dry-run

You don't have to rehearse your whole episode verbatim, but it's a good idea to do a quick run-through out loud to make sure it flows.

You can use your podcast script example PDF to practice in front of a mirror or record part of the episode using a voice recording app.

Final thoughts

A good podcast outline can make episodes sound effortless to listeners and minimize recording mistakes that could take significant time to fix.

Whichever podcast template you choose, the goal is to provide the amount of structure you need to effectively communicate your message and keep your audience listening!

Follow Buzzsprout on YouTube for more podcasting tips, tricks, and tutorials!

Alban Brooke

Alban Brooke is the Head of Marketing at Buzzsprout and the co-host of Buzzcast . Have any questions about this guide? Reach out on Twitter .

Do you need to have a podcast script?

You don't have to write a script for your episodes, but all podcasts benefit from a bit of pre-planning and structure. Even a simple outline with a few bullet points is better than winging it completely.

How do you write a podcast outline?

To write a podcast outline, do some keyword research on your topic to gauge the common questions associated with it. Then, use a podcast script template PDF to create an outline that includes main points, supporting points, relevant data, etc.

What makes a good podcast script?

Unless you want a word-for-word monologue, it's best to keep your podcast conversational, like you're talking to a listener one-on-one. You can use a speech-to-text tool to dictate your outline so it sounds natural and flows.

Script Slayers - A Movie Review and Rewrite Podcast

• VISUAL ARTS
• UPDATED BIWEEKLY

On Script Slayers, authors Steph and Jeff look at films with problematic screenplays and give them a writing make-over.

The Matrix: Resurrections (2021)

In this episode, Steph and Jeff plug into an aging film franchise. Does Resurrections breathe new life into the adventures of Neo and friends? Or should the script be subjected to our Ctrl-Alt-Del?

Godzilla: King of the Monsters (2019)

In this episode, Steph and Jeff check out the 2019 kaiju-fest, Godzilla: King of the Monsters. Does this movie about epically bad parents, genocidal environmentalists and giant monsters need a rewrite? Or, does that last sentence sound fine to you? And, if so, are you currently seeing a therapist?

Hellboy (2019)

In this episode, Steph and Jeff re-write the 2019 soft-reboot of the Hellboy franchise.

Alien: Covenant (2017)

In this episode, Jeff and Steph check out Covenant, the 2017 sequel to the 2012 Alien prequel, Prometheus. Is this prequel sequel with watching? Or should it have its own prequel to explain what's going on...a prequel sequel prequel. I will stop now. You are welcome.

Prometheus (2012)

In this episode, Steph and Jeff check out the prequel(ish) to the SF/horror film, Alien. Does Ridley Scott find new magic among the stars? Listen in and find out.

Battlefield Earth (2000)

In this episode, Steph and Jeff turn their attention to Battlefield Earth. Does this story of mankind's liberation from aliens with bad haircuts and all the chins hold up to scrutiny? When you learn the answer is no, will you be surprised?

Jesus Revolution (2023)

Jesus saves - but he won't share his Netflix account, which you'll need to watch this movie. But, you don't need one to listen to our rewrite.

Fatale (2020)

In this episode, Steph and Jeff check out the erotic(ish) thriller Fatale. Does it equal such classics as Basic Instinct (and, yes, that movie is a classic - I will fight you if you say otherwise) and Fatal Attraction? Does the writer know what a femme fatale is? How many plot-holes does it take to create a universe destroying narrative singularity? Listen in and find out.

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Information.

• Creator StephAndJeff
• Years Active 2023 - 2024
• Episodes 42
• Rating Explicit
• Copyright © StephAndJeff
• Show Website Script Slayers - A Movie Review and Rewrite Podcast

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How to Write a Podcast Script: Tips, Tricks, and Templates

Hey there, podcasters-to-be! So, you're thinking about diving into the world of podcasting? Well, things can look a little complex before you get started, but we promise that this guide will help you get through it all.

Say you've got a fantastic idea for a podcast. How do you actually bring it to life? That's where writing scripts comes into play. Scripts are like the blueprint for a show and can help you keep your audience hooked from start to finish. So grab your favorite beverage, cozy up, and let's chat about all things podcast scripting!

Understanding Podcast Scripts

Let's kick things off by breaking down what they are, why they're essential, and how they can take your podcast from meh to mind-blowing .

When we talk about podcast scripts, we're essentially referring to a roadmap for your podcast episode. In other words, a script outlines the structure, content, and flow of your show - also providing guidance for both you as the host and your audience.

Now, let's break down the purpose of scripts:

• Clarity and organization : Podcast scripts help you organize your thoughts and ideas in a clear and structured manner. For example, they make sure that your content flows smoothly from one segment to the next, keeping your listeners engaged and informed.
• Consistency : Scripts also help maintain consistency across episodes. The result is, then, a podcast that maintains its overall tone, style, and format. This consistency helps build trust with your audience and keeps them coming back for more, too.
• Time management : By scripting your podcast, you can better manage your time during recording and editing . This is because scripts help you stay on track, preventing you from rambling or going off on tangents, which can save you valuable time in the production process.
• Improvisation and flexibility : While scripts provide a framework for your podcast, they also allow for spontaneity and improvisation. They serve as a solid foundation that you can build upon or deviate from as needed, giving you the flexibility to adapt to unexpected situations or audience reactions.

Different Types of Podcast Scripts

When it comes to podcasting, there's no one-size-fits-all approach to scripting. What you want to write down will vary widely depending on the format, content, and style of your show. However, there are some types of podcast scripts that are considered more common:

Narrative Scripts

Focused more on storytelling, they typically feature a structured storyline with a beginning, middle, and end. Also, they often incorporate elements like characters, plot development, and thematic arcs. These scripts are commonly used in narrative-driven podcasts, such as true crime, fiction, history, and storytelling shows. They require careful planning, research, and attention to detail to create compelling and engaging narratives.

Interview Scripts

Interview-style scripts are designed for podcast episodes that feature guest interviews or conversations. They outline the questions, topics, and talking points that the host will cover during the interview and help guide the flow of the conversation. In this case, the goal is to ensure that important points are addressed and that the interview stays focused and engaging for the audience. Interview scripts can range from loosely structured outlines to more detailed question-and-answer formats.

Solo Scripts

Solo scripts are used for podcasts where the host presents content or shares insights and opinions on a particular topic. These scripts outline the host's monologue or presentation, providing a roadmap for the episode. Solo scripts often include intro segments, main content points, and concluding remarks as part of the outro. These scripts allow you to deliver content in a clear, concise, and engaging manner while also giving you opportunities for spontaneity and improvisation.

Panel Discussion Scripts

Panel discussion scripts are used for podcasts that have multiple hosts or guests talking or debating a topic. These scripts typically outline the structure, topics, and speaking roles for each participant and try to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to contribute to the conversation. For example, they can include guest introductions, opening remarks, discussion prompts, rebuttals, and closing statements.

Hybrid Scripts

Hybrid scripts combine elements of the different script types we’ve just seen. For example, a podcast episode may feature narrative storytelling, guest interviews, and solo commentary.

Planning Your Podcast Script

Planning is the foundation for any successful and engaging podcast. So, let’s now see some of the things you can do before you hit record.

Step 1: Identify Your Target Audience

Before diving into scriptwriting, it's important to determine who your target audience will be. There are a few things you can consider here, such as what topics or themes will resonate most with them.

If you’re unsure, you can conduct market research, analyze demographics, and gather insights to understand your audience's interests, preferences, and pain points. What matters is that, by identifying who you want to talk to, you will be able to tailor your content to their needs and create podcast episodes that engage and resonate with them.

Step 2: Defining the Podcast Format and Style

Once you've identified your target audience, it's time to define the format and style of your podcast.

Consider the type of content you want to create—will it be interviews, storytelling, educational, or something else? Think about the tone, pacing, and overall vibe you want your podcast to have. Define your podcast's unique style and personality, keeping in mind how it aligns with your target audience's preferences and expectations.

Step 3: Brainstorming Episode Topics and Content Ideas

With your target audience and podcast format in mind, brainstorm episode topics and content ideas that will resonate with your listeners.

Think about what issues, questions, or challenges your audience faces and how your podcast can address them. Consider current trends, news stories, and popular culture topics that are relevant to your audience. Brainstorm a variety of ideas and topics to keep your content fresh, engaging, and diverse.

Also, don't be afraid to think outside the box! You can always try to explore new angles or perspectives to keep your podcast interesting and relevant.

Step 4: Creating an Outline for Your Podcast Script

Once you've brainstormed episode topics and content ideas, it's time to create an outline for your podcast script. Your outline will serve as a roadmap for your podcast script, guiding your content creation process and ensuring that you stay on track during recording and editing.

Start by outlining the main segments or sections of your episode, such as the introduction, main content, and conclusion. Break down each segment into key points, talking points, or discussion topics that you want to cover.

It’s also a good idea to consider the flow and structure of your episode — ensuring that it is logical, cohesive, and engaging for your audience. Don’t worry, though. This is just the outline. The actual writing comes in the next section!

Writing Techniques for Podcast Scripts

Now that we’ve discussed the planning, it’s time to start working on your actual script. Luckily, when it comes to writing techniques for podcast scripts, there are several strategies you can use to craft compelling and engaging content. Let's explore some of these techniques in more detail, shall we?

Technique #1: Captivating Introductions

It’s always a good idea to start your podcast episodes with an intro that grabs your listeners' attention (and also sets the stage for what's to come). Now, how do you do this, exactly? Well, you have a few options.

Storytelling

Storytelling is a powerful way to engage listeners and create a connection right from the beginning of your podcast. For example, you can start with a brief anecdote, personal story, or narrative that relates to the topic of your episode. Don’t forget to also use descriptive language, vivid imagery, and sensory details to paint a picture and draw listeners into the story.

For example: "Picture this: It's a chilly autumn evening, and you're walking through the deserted streets of a small town. Suddenly, you hear a mysterious noise coming from the old abandoned house on the corner..."

Intriguing Facts

Another effective way to grab your listeners' attention is by starting with an intriguing fact or statistic related to your topic. This can be something surprising, shocking, or little-known that piques curiosity and makes listeners eager to learn more. Make sure the fact is relevant to the content of your episode and sets the stage for what's to come.

For example: "Did you know that octopuses have three hearts and blue blood? It sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie, but it's true! Today, we'll explore the fascinating world of these enigmatic creatures and uncover some of the incredible secrets lurking beneath the ocean's surface."

Thought-Provoking Questions

Pose thought-provoking questions to your audience right at the beginning of your episode to spark their curiosity and encourage them to think critically about the topic. These questions can be rhetorical or open-ended, inviting listeners to reflect on their own experiences or perspectives. Consider starting with a question that challenges conventional wisdom or prompts listeners to reconsider their assumptions.

For example: "Have you ever wondered what it would be like to travel back in time and witness a pivotal moment in history? What if you could meet some of the most influential figures from the past and experience their world firsthand? In this episode, we'll embark on a journey through time and explore the possibilities of time travel."

Compelling Hooks

Hooks are like bait for your audience—they're designed to reel listeners in and keep them engaged throughout the episode. A compelling hook can take many forms, depending on the tone and style of your podcast. It could be a dramatic statement, a humorous anecdote, a shocking revelation, or a tantalizing teaser for what's to come.

For example: "Attention all thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies! Get ready to embark on the ultimate adventure of a lifetime as we dive headfirst into the heart-pounding world of extreme sports. From death-defying stunts to breathtaking feats of athleticism, this episode will leave you on the edge of your seat and craving more!"

Technique #2: Engaging Storytelling

Although we have mentioned this point above, there’s a lot more we can say about storytelling. First of all, storytelling lies at the heart of captivating podcast content. So, you should use it to ensnare your audience's attention and keep them hooked from start to finish.

Here are a few ways to improve yours.

Vivid Language and Descriptive Imagery

It’s a great idea to try to paint a vivid picture with your words, and this applies to beginners and seasoned podcasters. A good podcast script uses descriptive language and imagery to transport your listeners to another world. For example, describing sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and textures allows them to visualize the scenes you're talking about.

For example, instead of simply saying, "The sun was setting," you could say, "The fiery orb dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow across the landscape and painting the sky in shades of orange and pink."

Using Narratives

You can also craft compelling narratives that unfold like a gripping story - complete with engaging characters, intriguing plot twists, and emotional arcs! Think about it like this: You can structure your episodes like a well-paced narrative, building tension, suspense, and anticipation as you lead your audience through the storyline.

Some storytelling techniques you can use include foreshadowing, cliffhangers, and dramatic reveals to keep listeners on the edge of their seats and eager to hear what happens next.

For example: “Days turn into weeks as the hikers navigate treacherous terrain, forging bonds of friendship and camaraderie in the face of danger. Along the way, they encounter breathtaking vistas, encounter wildlife, and discover hidden strengths within themselves that they never knew existed.“

Personal Anecdotes and Real-Life Examples

Since podcasts are all about building bridges, you should try to incorporate some personal anecdotes, real-life experiences, and examples from your own life. These will make your content relatable and authentic - no matter if you’re running a solo show, in an interview podcast, or have co-hosts. You can, for instance, share personal stories, insights, and reflections that resonate with your audience and add depth to your storytelling.

By sharing your own vulnerabilities, you create a sense of connection and authenticity that fosters trust and rapport with your listeners. It humanizes your content and makes it more relatable and engaging.

For example: "Growing up, I was always terrified of public speaking. The mere thought of standing in front of a crowd would send shivers down my spine. But one day, I decided to face my fears head-on and signed up for a public speaking class. This experience taught me that courage isn't the absence of fear, but the willingness to confront it and push through despite the discomfort."

Case Studies and Lessons Learned

Lastly, it’s also a good idea to use case studies, historical examples, or anecdotes from other people's experiences to illustrate key points and lessons in your podcast episodes. You can always draw on real-world ones to provide context, add credibility, and demonstrate the practical applications of your ideas.

For example: "By implementing targeted social media marketing strategies and optimizing her website for mobile users, Jane was able to triple her sales within six months. The lesson learned? By leveraging digital marketing tactics and prioritizing user experience, even small businesses can achieve significant growth in today's competitive market."

Technique #3: Clear and Concise Language

Using clear and concise language is essential for effective communication in podcasting because it ensures that your message is easily understood by your audience (regardless of their background or level of expertise).

It's particularly important if your podcast caters to a broad audience with diverse interests and knowledge levels. By avoiding jargon, technical terms, and complex language, you make your content accessible to a wider range of listeners and prevent them from feeling overwhelmed or alienated.

Instead, opt for simple and straightforward language that conveys your ideas and messages clearly and effectively. Break down complex concepts into bite-sized pieces and use everyday language that your audience can relate to. Analogies, metaphors, and examples can be helpful tools for explaining difficult concepts in a way that's easy to understand.

Here's an example of clear and concise language in a podcast script:

Original: "Today's episode will examine the principles of astrophysics, delving into the mysteries of the cosmos. We'll explore topics such as black holes, dark matter, and the expanding universe, shedding light on the secrets of outer space."

Revised: "Welcome to our show today! We're going to talk about space science. We'll learn about things like black holes, dark matter, and how the universe is getting bigger. Get ready to explore the wonders of space!"

In this revised example, complex terms and concepts are simplified and presented in a more accessible way. The language is clear, concise, and easy to understand, making the content more engaging and relatable for a broad audience.

Technique #4: Effective Transitions

Transitions are very important to make sure that your podcast episodes flow seamlessly and maintain coherence throughout.

By using transition sound effects, phrases, or cues, you can signal shifts in topic, tone, or format, helping listeners anticipate changes and stay engaged. For example, phrases like " Now, let's shift gears and explore..." or "Moving on to our next topic.. ." can provide clear signals that a transition is about to happen.

Segues are another powerful tool for maintaining momentum and cohesion in your podcast episodes. These brief bridges between segments serve to connect ideas and keep the conversation flowing smoothly (and in many cases, add a sponsor message). Segues can take many forms, including a quick recap of the previous segment, a teaser for what's coming next, or a transitionary statement that ties together different topics or themes.

Here are a few examples of transitions you can use as a podcast host:

Topic Transition: "Now that we've discussed the importance of time management, let's shift our focus to another crucial aspect of productivity: setting goals."

Recap Transition: "Before we move on to our next segment, let's quickly recap what we've covered so far..."

Question Transition: "That leads us to an important question: How can we apply these principles in our daily lives?"

Preview Transition: "But first, let's take a sneak peek at what's coming up in the next segment..."

Personal Anecdote Transition: "Speaking of memorable experiences, let me share a personal story that illustrates this point..."

Quote Transition: "As Albert Einstein once said, 'Imagination is more important than knowledge.' Let's explore the power of imagination in our next segment."

Transition to Audience Interaction: "Before we continue, I want to hear from you! What are your thoughts on this topic? Share your experiences in the comments below."

Change of Format Transition: "Now that we've covered the basics, let's switch gears and dive into some practical examples."

Technique #5: Authenticity and Personality

Infusing your podcast scripts with authenticity means staying true to yourself and your beliefs. It involves sharing your genuine thoughts, feelings, and experiences with your audience rather than presenting a polished or scripted version of yourself. Authenticity allows listeners to relate to you on a deeper level and fosters trust and rapport.

Personality is what sets your podcast apart from others. It's the unique voice, style, and perspective that only you can bring to the table. Embrace your personality and let it shine through in your writing, whether that means injecting humor, emotion, or passion into your content. Your personality is what makes your podcast memorable and engaging for listeners. For example:

Original: "Welcome to the Mindful Moments podcast, where we explore techniques for reducing stress and finding inner peace. In today's episode, we'll discuss the benefits of meditation and share tips for incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine."

Revised with Authenticity and Personality: "Hey there, fellow seekers of serenity! Welcome back to Mindful Moments, your go-to podcast for all things Zen. I'm your host, Sarah, and I'm so excited to dive into today's topic: meditation. But before we get started, can I just say how much I needed this moment of calm today? It's been a whirlwind of a week, and I'm ready to take a deep breath and find some peace amidst the chaos. So grab your cushions, find a cozy spot, and let's zen out together!"

Tips for Interview-Based Podcast Scripts

Many of the things we’ve covered above are more solo-podcasting-oriented. So, here are some tips for crafting interview-based podcast scripts:

• Research your guests : Before the interview, thoroughly research your guests to understand their background, expertise, and areas of interest. This will help you prepare insightful questions and tailor the conversation to their expertise.
• Prepare open-ended questions : Instead of asking yes or no questions, prepare bullet points for open-ended questions that encourage your guests to share their thoughts, experiences, and insights in detail. This allows for more engaging and dynamic conversations.
• Create a flexible script : While it's important to have a structure for your interview, be prepared to deviate from your script based on the direction of the conversation. In other words, allow some room for spontaneity and follow interesting leads that emerge during the interview.
• Listen actively : Practice active listening during the interview by paying close attention to your guest's responses and asking follow-up questions to delve deeper into their answers. This shows your guests that you value their input and encourages them to open up.
• Build rapport: Establish a rapport with your co-hosts and guests by creating a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere. Start the interview with your guest’s name and some friendly small talk to help them feel at ease and show genuine interest in their perspective throughout the conversation.

Recording Your Podcast

To record your podcast after writing the script, start by selecting a quiet and controlled environment that minimizes background noise.

It’s a good idea to invest in high-quality recording equipment such as a microphone, headphones , and audio interface - as these can help you ensure clear sound quality. Before recording, warm up your voice and practice proper microphone techniques to optimize vocal clarity.

Throughout the recording process, remember to take breaks and stay hydrated by drinking water regularly. You can also experiment with different delivery styles and record multiple takes of each segment to achieve the best performance. And don’t forget to include some CTAs (or calls to action) explaining to your listeners what you would like them to do next!

Here are some tips to ensure your podcast recordings are up to the task and can stand out against the competition:

• Invest in quality equipment : Buy high-quality microphones, headphones, and audio interfaces to capture clear and professional sound. Quality equipment can significantly improve the overall production value of your podcast.
• Choose the right recording environment : Record in a quiet and controlled environment. This will help you minimize background noise and distractions. You can also consider using acoustic treatments or soundproofing materials to improve your recording space.
• Practice proper mic technique : Figure out how to use your microphone like a pro. Get up close and personal with it, and talk like you're chatting with a friend. Or, more specifically, position the microphone at the correct distance from your mouth and speak directly into it with consistent volume and tone.
• Focus on audio quality : Pay attention to how your podcast sounds, keep an ear out for any weird noises and adjust the levels so it's all smooth sailing.
• Edit and polish your recordings : Take the time to edit and polish your recordings. The goal is to remove any mistakes, pauses, or background noise. You can also use audio editing software to clean up your audio and add music, sound effects, or other enhancements as desired.
• Promote your podcast : Once your recordings are ready, promote your podcast across various platforms to reach a wider audience. Use social media, email newsletters, and online communities to spread the word about your podcast and attract new listeners.

By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to creating a killer podcast that stands out from the crowd.

Templates and Tools for Podcast Scriptwriting

Although there are some templates available for podcast scriptwriting, remember these are just guides for structuring your episodes. You are the one who knows and understands your content, so you don’t need to necessarily follow a framework.

Having said that, some common elements often included in podcast script templates are:

• Introduction : A brief podcast intro that sets the tone for the episode and introduces the topic or theme (as well as the podcast name!).
• Hook : An attention-grabbing opening statement, anecdote, or question. It should be designed to draw in the listener and pique their interest.
• Main content / main points : The main body of the episode can be organized into segments or sections. Each should explore different aspects of the topic. For example, you can have interviews, discussions, and storytelling.
• Transition : Smooth transitions between segments or topics to maintain flow and coherence throughout the episode.
• Conclusion : A conclusion that summarizes the key points covered in the episode and provides closure or next steps for the listener. You can also use this section to talk about the next episode!

While these are common elements found in many podcast script templates, you should feel free to customize and adapt them to fit your unique style and content.

Podcast scripts are essential for podcasters to effectively plan, organize, and deliver content to listeners. As we have seen in this article, they provide structure, consistency, and clarity and can ultimately enhance the overall quality and impact of your podcast episodes.

Ultimately, the type of podcast script you choose will depend on your podcast format, content goals, and personal preferences as a host. So, it’s always a good idea to experiment with different styles to find what works best for you.

Recording and sharing your podcast are crucial steps in bringing your content to life, and tools like StreamYard can be invaluable in simplifying the process.

StreamYard is a user-friendly live streaming platform that allows you to produce high-quality video and audio content with ease. With StreamYard, you can invite guests to join your podcast remotely, conduct interviews, panel discussions, or solo broadcasts, and stream your episodes live to various platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and Twitch. What’s more, with StreamYard 's browser-based interface, you can start recording your podcast with just a few clicks, eliminating the need for complex setup or equipment.

StreamYard also offers a range of features designed specifically for podcasters, such as screen sharing, overlays, and branding options. This means you can customize your broadcasts with your logo, colors, and graphics to create a polished and professional look that reflects your brand identity.

Ultimately, whether you choose to use StreamYard or another recording method, the most important thing is to find a solution that works best for you and your podcasting goals. With the right tools and techniques, you can create professional-quality podcast episodes that captivate your audience and elevate your content to new heights.

Get started with StreamYard today. It’s completely free!

Start creating with StreamYard today

Podcast Script Writing: Tips, Templates, Examples

Writing a script for your podcast is crucial to ensure a well-structured and engaging episode. A script provides:

• Organization : Outlines key topics and segments to cover
• Consistency : Maintains a cohesive flow and tone across episodes
• Efficiency : Reduces editing time by minimizing tangents or mistakes

There are three main script types:

When creating your script, follow these best practices:

• Use everyday language and a conversational tone
• Incorporate delivery notes for pacing, emphasis, and tone
• Allow flexibility for improvisation and natural flow
• Practice reading the script aloud before recording
• Consider using speech-to-text tools for a more natural delivery

The key is finding the right balance between structure and spontaneity. Experiment with different scripting methods to discover what works best for your podcast format and personal preferences.

Related video from YouTube

Types of Podcast Scripts

Podcast scripts come in different forms to suit various needs. Here are the main types:

Narrative Scripts

Narrative scripts are detailed, word-for-word transcripts used for fiction or highly-produced shows. They provide a structured approach to storytelling, ensuring every element, from dialogue to sound effects, is carefully planned. These scripts are ideal for podcasters creating immersive stories with complex characters and plotlines.

Outline Scripts

Outline scripts consist of bullet points or brief notes, allowing for improvisation. They provide a general structure for the episode, outlining key topics, segments, and transitions. This approach suits podcasters who prefer a conversational tone and want to leave room for spontaneity.

Hybrid Scripts

Hybrid scripts combine detailed sections, like intros and outros, with room for improvisation in other segments. They balance structure and flexibility, ensuring a polished show without sacrificing a natural flow.

Here's a comparison of these script types:

The right script type depends on your show's format and personal preferences. The key is using a script as a tool to enhance your podcast, not limit its potential.

Creating a Clear Podcast Script

Crafting an effective podcast script requires careful planning, organization, and writing. A well-designed script ensures a smooth flow of ideas, keeps your audience engaged, and helps you achieve your podcasting goals.

Planning and Preparation

Before writing your script, identify your target audience, define your podcast format, and brainstorm topics. Conduct research to gather valuable information to share with your listeners. Consider:

• Who is your target audience?
• What are their interests or challenges?
• What format will your podcast take (interview, storytelling, educational, etc.)?
• What topics will you cover, and how will you structure your episodes?

Structure and Flow

A well-structured script ensures a logical flow of ideas and keeps your listeners engaged. Consider the following:

• Outline your main sections (introduction, body, conclusion)
• Plan your transitions between sections
• Use storytelling techniques to make your content relatable
• Use clear and concise language to convey your message

Key Script Elements

A podcast script typically includes the following essential components:

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Script templates and examples.

Podcast scripts come in various formats, and using the right templates and examples can help you create effective scripts for your show. In this section, we'll explore templates for different formats, examples of effective script sections, and a comparison of script types.

Templates for Different Formats

Podcast scripts can be categorized into three main formats: solo, interview, and co-hosted. Each format requires a unique approach to scripting. Here are some templates to get you started:

Effective Script Sections

A well-crafted script includes essential sections that engage your audience and convey your message clearly. Here are some examples of effective script sections:

• Introduction : Grab your audience's attention with an engaging intro that sets the tone for your podcast.
• Main Topic : Outline your main points and provide supporting details or examples.
• Transition : Use phrases to smoothly move between your main points and keep your audience focused.
• Call-to-Action : Encourage your audience to take action, such as subscribing or leaving a review.
• Outro : Summarize your main points and provide a final thought or teaser for your next episode.

Script Type Comparison

Here's a comparison of narrative, outline, and hybrid scripts:

Writing Tips and Best Practices

Use everyday language.

When writing your podcast script, aim for a conversational tone that sounds like how you would speak in real life. This helps create a more engaging experience for your listeners. Avoid overly formal or complex words that could make your content sound stiff or unnatural. Instead, use simple words and phrases that you would typically use in everyday conversations.

Add Delivery Notes

Incorporate delivery notes into your script to guide your pacing, tone, and emphasis during recording. These notes can indicate where to pause, stress certain words or phrases, adjust your volume, or convey specific emotions. For example, you might use "//" to indicate a brief pause or underline a word to emphasize it. Delivery notes help bring your script to life and make it sound more natural.

Allow for Flexibility

While a script provides structure and ensures you cover all the key points, it's essential to leave room for spontaneity. Avoid rigidly sticking to your script word-for-word, as this can make your delivery sound robotic or rehearsed. Instead, treat your script as a guide and allow yourself to deviate from it when appropriate, such as adding personal stories or responding to unexpected developments during recording.

Practice Before Recording

Before hitting the record button, take the time to practice reading through your script out loud. This will help you identify any awkward phrasing, tongue twisters, or areas that need clarification. It will also allow you to become more comfortable with the material and develop a natural flow. Practicing your script can make a significant difference in the overall quality and delivery of your podcast.

Use Speech-to-Text Tools

Consider using speech-to-text tools to capture your thoughts and ideas in a more natural way. By speaking your script instead of typing it, you can create a more conversational tone that sounds less scripted. However, be prepared to edit the transcribed text for clarity and coherence, as speech-to-text technology is not always 100% accurate.

The Importance of Podcast Scripts

Writing a podcast script is crucial for creating a well-structured and engaging episode. It helps you:

• Stay organized
• Ensure consistency
• Save time in the long run

By following the tips and best practices outlined in this article, you can craft a script that effectively communicates your message and resonates with your audience.

Try Different Scripting Methods

Don't be afraid to experiment with different scripting methods to find what works best for your podcast. Try:

• Narrative scripts
• Outline scripts
• Hybrid scripts

Discover what suits your style and tone. Remember, scripting is a process, and it may take some trial and error to find the perfect balance.

Finding the Right Balance

The key to a successful podcast script is finding the right balance between structure and spontaneity. While a script provides a clear outline, it's essential to leave room for improvisation and flexibility. By doing so, you can create a natural flow that engages your listeners and makes your content more relatable.

What makes a good podcast script?

A good podcast script provides a clear outline while allowing natural conversation. It should include:

• An engaging introduction to hook listeners
• Smooth transitions between segments
• Key talking points and stories
• Room for improvisation and personality

Example: "Hello and welcome to [Podcast Title], exploring [topic/theme]. I'm your host [Name]. Today we'll discuss [main points] with guest [Guest Name]. We'll get their insights on [episode focus] and uncover useful tips."

How long should a script be?

The ideal length varies, but a general guide is:

• Fully scripted episodes: 45-65 pages for 1 hour
• Outline scripts: 1-2 pages hitting main points

Find the right balance between structure and natural flow for your show's format.

What format should a podcast script follow?

A typical podcast script includes:

• Introduction (hook, guest intro if applicable, topic overview)
• Segmented talking points or stories
• Transitions between segments
• Conclusion (recap, call-to-action)
• Outro (credits, sponsorship, etc.)

Adapt the format to your show's needs - narrative, conversational, or hybrid styles.

How do you plan a podcast script?

• Set clear goals for the episode
• Outline the main topics and stories
• Write in a conversational tone
• Plan smooth transitions
• Note key points but allow improvisation

How do you write a podcast script?

• Set episode goals and main discussion points
• Provide context for each segment
• Write as you would speak in conversation
• Include planned transitions
• Cover key points but leave room for creativity
• End with a concise conclusion and call-to-action

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Podcast Script: How to Write One [With Free Templates & Examples]

Table of contents:

What Is a Podcast Script, and Why Use One?

How Long Is a Podcast Script?

How to write a podcast script, podcast script examples.

Conversation/Interview Show

Word-for-Word Script

Bonus: Advanced Tips to Nail Your Podcast Script

One of the most intimidating aspects of starting a podcast is writing the podcast script.

After all, you’re probably getting into podcasting because you like to talk , not write , right?

But as all seasoned podcasters know, producing a podcast without a script is a lot like starting a road trip without GPS. You may know where you want to go, but you don’t know exactly how to get there—which can get you into all kinds of trouble.

That’s why in this post, we’ll show you what a podcast script is and why you should use one. Then, we’ll go over how to write a script, complete with examples and templates based on your unique style.

What Is a Podcast Script, and Why Use One? 

When you think of a podcast script, you might think of a play or movie script—where every word is planned out in advance. You might be hesitant to adopt a script for this reason; won’t scripting your podcast essentially rob it of its casual, free-flowing, and conversational feel? Won’t reading off of a page make you sound stilted and monotone?

Not necessarily.

For one thing, a podcast script doesn’t need to be a word-for-word transcript of your show. Podcast scripts, unlike stage or television scripts, can run the gambit from bare-bones to detailed, as long as they give you an outline and general idea of what should take place in your audio recording. 

A podcast script is basically a roadmap for your episode —and you can decide how many details you need to make it from point A to Z.

A well-done script gives structure, direction, and conciseness to your podcast episode. Having an outline and a written direction for your show can help you feel more at ease and focus on the here and now, rather than being stressed about how you’re going to fill the next 30-45 minutes of recording time. 

It can also reduce mistakes, which can cut editing time significantly. When taking the editing time you’ll save into account, writing an outline might actually save you time in the end.

The length and detail of your podcast script will vary based on your style. Some podcasters choose to write out every word that they plan to say, while others jot down a few bullet points to keep themselves on track while they freewheel the recording.

It’s a good idea to use a podcast script template that stays consistent from episode to episode. It might have some flexibility to accommodate each episode’s needs, but the basics will stay the same. That way, your audience will know what to expect. 

Let’s break down the main components of a good podcast script below.

1. Podcast Intro (Including Music)

If you’ve listened to many podcasts, you know that most of them have the same introduction each time. A good intro will be short, welcoming, and include some type of theme music or jingle.

The simplest podcast intro template looks like this:

“Welcome to [podcast name], where we discuss [podcast topic or tagline]. I’m [host name], and with me is [co-host name]. Today, we’ll be talking about [episode topic] with our special guest, [guest name]. Let’s get started!”

Your audience will appreciate a simple outline of what to expect in the episode. 

Record an intro with Riverside’s Media Board where you can add background music and effects live!

2. welcome / guest introduction.

Next, if your podcast interviews guests, you’ll need to introduce them. It’s important not to forget this step, since your guest is likely expecting to be shown the respect of a proper and correct introduction. That’s yet another reason why having a script is a good idea.

Write out your guest’s information so that you’re sure you get it right. And be sure to include any contextual information about your guest that will help your audience understand why they should care what your guest thinks. This can be as simple as stating their profession, or as in-depth as giving a little backstory demonstrating their credibility.

Your guest introduction can look something like:

“Today on the show, we’re excited to have [guest name], [insert their profession, role, or title]. She/he/they are going to share [their expertise on ____, their story, some advice about ____, etc.]. Hi, [guest first name], and welcome to [podcast name]!”

3. Message from a Sponsor

Some podcast sponsors send word-for-word scripts that you simply need to read, then insert into your podcast episode. Other sponsors simply give you a set of talking points that you and your co-host are expected to discuss in a way that matches your show’s style.

Either way, it’s a good idea to make a plan for what you’re going to say and how you’ll make the ad sound natural (rather than a hostage video) so that your audience will trust your advice, purchase the products, and your sponsors continue to… well, sponsor you.

A good basic sponsor message might sound something like:

“[Podcast name] is brought to you by [sponsor name]. [Sponsor] is [explain the product being sold, why it’s beneficial, and your positive personal experience with it. Explain why your audience should consider trying the product, and include your podcast’s discount or promo code, if applicable].”

Since your episode will likely have several different components, it’s important to plan out your transitions to make the podcast flow naturally and cohesively. 

You can approach these transitions (or segues) in several ways, including with a jingle, sound effect, or a spoken phrase. You might even choose to use a short clip of your podcast’s theme music. Whatever matches your podcast’s tone and your personal preferences!

5. Outro and Call to Action

The outro is the conclusion of your podcast. Think of it as a way to summarize or recap what was discussed and how it might help your listeners. Make sure to thank your guests for joining you, as well as your audience for listening. 

It’s at this point that you can give your audience a teaser for future episodes or announce upcoming events. Many podcasters also mention that resources related to what was discussed in the episode are available in the show notes .

The end of your episode is also a great place to include some kind of call to action (CTA). Is there something you want your audience to do? Ask them! Common CTAs include:

• Rate and review on Apple Podcasts
• Join the podcast’s Facebook group
• Call-in/get in touch with questions or feedback
• Sign up for your weekly newsletter

And finally, it’s a good idea to include credits at the very end of your outro. Anyone who had a hand in the production of the episode should be credited.

Here’s a basic example of an outro script template:

“That brings us to the end of this episode! Thanks to [guest name] for joining us during that [adjective] discussion of [topic(s)]. We hope [the value brought to your audience by the episode] was beneficial to you. As always, thanks for listening to [podcast name].  “If you enjoy our show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts—and be sure to come back next week for a discussion of [next episode’s topic]. Until then, this is [host name], and don’t forget: [podcast slogan/catchphrase]! [Over outro music]: “This podcast was created by [name]. It was produced and recorded by [name], researched by [name], and edited by [name]. [Podcast name] is a product of [studio name].”

Now that you know the basic components of a podcast script, it’s time to consider which type of template will work best for you. We’ve included five script examples differentiated by whether you’re a minimalist, have a solo show , run an interview or conversational podcast, or want a word-for-word script .

Many podcasters simply create a bullet-point outline for their episodes. They may have years of experience under their belt, or they may just be really good at talking eloquently off-the-cuff. Either way, minimalist hosts may need a template as simple as this one:

Intro: _____ (Duration: _____ )

[Sponsor message]

[Theme music]

Topic 1: _______ (Duration: ____ )

Topic 2: _______ (Duration: ____ )

Topic 3: _______ (Duration: ____ )

Outro: _____ (Duration: ____ )

[Closing theme music]

If you’re the sole host of your podcast, you may find it comforting to have a thoroughly thought-out script and outline for each episode. Since you’ll be talking the entire time, you won’t have time to gather your thoughts while another person is speaking.

You can either organize your thoughts into a full script (in which case, try to keep your wording conversational and casual) or a detailed outline with the topics, supporting points, and any quotes or stories you want to mention.

Intro: Brief summary of the episode’s contents. Introduce yourself, your podcast, and any guests. (Duration: _____ )

Topic 1: _______________ (Duration: ___ )

Supporting points

Data, quotes, or other information 

Topic 2:  _______________ (Duration: ___ )

Data, quotes, or other information

Topic 3: _______________ (Duration: ___ )

Call to action

Conversation/Interview Show 

The most popular podcast format is the conversational/interview show. Audiences love the easy-going nature of conversations, where listeners feel that they’re simply sitting in on a talk between friends (whether the content is comedic, educational, or simply friendly banter).

These types of podcasts work best with a loose structure that supports the conversational element. It’s key to give the hosts space to speak normally and let the conversation flow as it wills while providing the right amount of structure to keep it from going off the rails.

Interview: 

Guest introduction: include a guest bio, including their title, experience, and any relevant accomplishments. Thank them for joining the podcast. 

Question 1 (Duration: ____ )

Question 2 (Duration: ____ )

Question 3 (Duration: ____ )

Outro : _____ (Duration: ____ )

Conversation with co-host:

Topic 1: ________ (Duration: ___ )

[Segue] (sound effect, short musical clip, or phrase) 

Topic 2: ________ (Duration: ___ )

Topic 3: ________ (Duration: ___ )

Outro: (Duration: ___ ) 

Call to action 

[Sponsor message] 

[Closing music jingle/sound effects]

Word-for-Word Script 

This type of script works best for newbies or hosts of highly informational podcasts. If you’re inexperienced or need to get a lot of educational info into your episode, you probably need to write out exactly what you’re going to say. Use this outline to fill in your entire podcast, from intro to outro:

Intro : Brief summary of the episode’s contents. Introduce yourself, your podcast, and any guests. (Duration: _____ )

Segue (can be a sound effect, short musical clip, or a phrase)

Topic 2: _______________ (Duration: ___ )

To get the most out of your podcast scripting journey, consider the following tips:

• Dictate your script. Many podcasters choose to use dictation software to get a natural phrasing and delivery for their script. That way, reading from it sounds more conversational and intuitive.
• Annotate your script. Once you have your script ready, don’t be afraid to print and annotate it with delivery notes. These types of notes indicate dramatic effects such as pauses, laughs, and emphasis. Underline words that you’d like to emphasize, and write a vertical line to indicate a pause. These types of details help your podcast feel more natural, even if you’re reading a word-for-word script.  
• Be as minimal as possible. Keep your script as simple as you can while still delivering high-quality performance. Staying concise and simple in your written script gives you room for flexibility and natural delivery.  
• Practice before recording the episode. Regardless of if you’ve written a detailed script or a loose podcast outline, it’s a good idea to rehearse your podcast episode before recording it. This helps you get the recording as close to perfect as possible on the first take, which avoids a long editing stage. 

Let Your Podcast Script Take You to New Heights

While creating a podcast script can have a varying process depending on your format and preferred style, the fact remains: a script will help you create an organized, structured, and efficient podcast recording. 

If you’re looking for a way to level up your remote podcasting game, consider writing podcasting scripts for your upcoming episodes. Whether you’re a minimalist, a maximalist, a solo recorder, or a co-host, you’ll find that your production will benefit in endless ways from a podcast script.

Once your script is good to go, you’re ready to record your podcast. For a seamless podcasting experience, sign up for Riverside .

Kendall Breitman

leads Riverside's community. She has over ten years of experience in television and video production for places like NBC and Bloomberg News. You’ll find Kendall on our webinar, where she shares her expert insights on content production, branding, and more.

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A step-by-step guide to writing a podcast script + templates to get started

What type of content do you primarily create?

A good podcast episode sounds conversational and effortless. The best ones make it seem like the podcast host freestyles the whole thing. 

But to create natural, free-flowing, and exciting conversations, hosts have to prepare a lot before getting in front of a microphone. 

When starting your own podcast , knowing how to write a podcast script is a critical skill.

Podcast script basics

A podcast script can be anything from a word-for-word transcript of what should be said to a loose outline of the main points to discuss in an episode. Either way, it acts as a roadmap that keeps you on track to hit all the points without veering off course. 

A script keeps your narrative clear and reduces time spent on editing, so you can focus on your delivery. It also allows for team members to collaborate on the content of an episode.

Podcast script length varies. For instance, an hour-long fully scripted podcast can be 45–65 pages. But if you stick with an outline that hits your main talking points, your script could be a single A4 notecard.

Podcast script sections and elements

A good podcast script has certain key elements, regardless of podcast format or episode topic. These elements can help any new podcast draw in listeners.

Introduction

A good podcast intro hooks your listeners and tells them what they can expect from the episode. It should include: 

• Your podcast’s name
• The host’s name
• The purpose or theme of your show
• The topic of today’s episode
• A teaser that will urge listeners to stick around to the end

Also, the music in your podcast's intro will set the tone for the show and get your listeners in the right mood.

EXAMPLE: Hi, my name’s [host name], and this is [co-host name]. You’re listening to [podcast title], where we discuss all things [theme or concept of show]. 

Today, we’re tackling [episode topic] and will have a special guest [guest name] with an incredible announcement. So make sure to stay tuned til the end!

Guest welcome

Introducing podcast guests onto your show is more than just mentioning the guest’s name. Research your guests and consult with them about how they want to be introduced. That way, you can include their credentials or a fun fact when welcoming them to your show and instantly build rapport.

EXAMPLE: Today, we’re excited to have [credential/profession/title and guest name], who [explanation of their expertise/reason they’re on the show]. Hi [guest name], welcome! Thank you so much for joining us!

Sponsor message

Some sponsors provide a complete script to read verbatim; others just give talking points or phrases to include. Remember to sound natural and represent your sponsor’s brand well when scriptwriting for sponsor messages.

EXAMPLE: [Your podcast name] is sponsored by [sponsor’s name]. [Insert sponsor name and products/services they want you to include and/or tagline].

All podcasts need segues to allow each episode to flow naturally. Even if you’re doing an in-depth single-topic episode, you’ll still need transitions throughout the show. Consider using sound effects, a musical jingle, or even a simple phrase. 

EXAMPLE: If you thought [topic 1] was [shocking/surprising/fascinating], just wait until you hear about [topic 2]. 

Call-to-Action (CTA)

CTAs get your audience to engage with your show. Some common CTAs to ask your listeners to perform are: 

• Rate and review your podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify
• Follow your show’s social media accounts
• Sign up for your show’s newsletter
• Visit your show’s website
• Email or message your show with comments, questions, or feedback

EXAMPLE: Check our Instagram at [insert Instagram handle] for details on our annual giveaway. And if you could take a minute to rate and leave a review for our show on Apple Podcasts, we’d really appreciate it. 

Podcast outro

The outro is the end of the show. This is where you can summarize the key takeaways of today’s episode, thank your guests and audience, and promote upcoming episodes or events. And if you have any staff or team members, you can thank them as you play the outro music.

EXAMPLE: That’s all for today, but tune in next week, where we’ll get down to the nitty-gritty of [next episode’s topic]. Thank you to [guest’s name] for joining us. 

[Outro music begins] I’m [host name], and this is [co-host name]. Thank you to [mention any staff, like producers, editors, researchers, etc.], and thanks for tuning in to [podcast name]. [Outro music fades out].

How to write a podcast script

Writing a podcast script sets you up for success before you record. You’ll battle nerves, time crunches, and distractions so your recording session goes smoothly. 

Below is a step-by-step process to writing that foolproof script.

1. Set your goals

Before you start writing a podcast outline, know your podcast’s goals. Sit down and decide:

• What you want to talk about: Topics, themes, message, and purpose of your show.
• The tone you want to set: Informational and structured? Or more conversational and free-flowing?
• Who you want to reach: Is your target audience fellow experts or complete beginners?
• Target episode length: There’s no right length for a podcast episode. While most are 20–30 minutes, popular shows can range from as short as 10 minutes to as long as 4 hours.
• Publishing cadence: How often will you release episodes? Will this be an ongoing podcast, or will you break it up into seasons with breaks in between? Or will you create a limited-run miniseries that’s over after a given number of episodes?
• Podcast format : Will it be interview-style with guests, solo with one host and a microphone, or a co-host setup? Fiction or nonfiction? And importantly, will it be fully scripted or more off the cuff?

2. Provide context

If you’re just working from an outline, make sure it’s crystal clear so you’ll understand it even if you record it a week later. Provide context clues for your talking points to jog your memory. 

Instead of just writing down ‘ Dog food story’, include a note, anecdote, or factoid for the topic. Something like: ‘ Dog food story, discovering Rex’s allergies—a week from hell.’ 

3. Write as you speak

The way you write and the way you speak are sometimes different. How we write is more formal than how we talk. The key to writing a podcast script that sounds natural is to write the way you talk.

Talk out loud as you would to a close friend, and write down what you say. Sounds silly, but it’ll give your script a natural conversational flow that sounds like you’re talking to your listeners personally. 

EXAMPLE: “ It’s very important to find the right dog food for your furry friend.” Sounds great on paper. But “ I can’t tell you how important it is to find the right food for your dog” sounds more conversational and friendly.

4. Don’t forget transitions

In everyday conversation, we use segues to transition from topic to topic. The same goes for a podcast episode. Segue phrases allow your audience to follow the conversation and give your episode a natural flow.

EXAMPLE: …That’s why a daily walk is so important. But exercise isn’t the only essential part of your dog’s health. I can’t tell you how important it is to find the right food for your dog.

5. Cover key points

To ensure you cover everything, list all the main and supporting points to discuss in your outline. From there, fill in your transitions, sponsor breaks, etc. 

It’s hard to find the right dog food

• Dry food, is it still ok to feed this to my dog?
• Depends on what’s in it
• Check the ingredients (protein content, fillers, vitamins)
• Things to look out for
• Does your dog have allergies?
• Recent recalls—read up on the dog food brand

Canned dog food, it’s wet, does that mean it’s better?

• Recent recalls—what’s going on in those canning factories?
• Canned doesn’t automatically mean better

Raw diet, we fancy up in here

• Things to consider
• Where was protein sourced?
• Is this a balanced diet?
• Different breeds need different diets
• Can be expensive and time consuming

6. Give space for creativity

Your podcast script is a guide. It’s a tool to help, not stifle your creativity while recording. So leave room to tell a fun story or riff off a guest’s comment.

This is important for all podcast script types, especially word-for-word scripts. After all, a podcast should be fun. If you’re not having fun, neither will your listeners. 

It can be hard to know which kind of dog food to buy. There are so many options! First, you’ve got your dry food, which can feel a little old-fashioned to be feeding your dog—but it’s totally fine, as long as you check the ingredients. Especially if your dog has allergies. [ If there’s time: Tell a story about Rex re-enacting The Exorcist all over the house.]

Podcast script examples and templates

The type of podcast script you choose for your podcast will depend on several factors, like the type of podcast you’re creating , your personal preferences, and the podcast topics you’ll tackle. 

Here are standard podcast formats and templates to get you started. 

Guest interview podcast

Interview shows, like Getting Curious with Jonathan Van Ness and The New York Times’ The Daily podcast, have at least one host interviewing a guest (or guests). 

A podcast script for this show type will include interview questions for each episode. When writing, think about things you’re genuinely curious about and write open-ended questions to encourage your guest to give more than just yes or no answers. Then, list your questions in a narrative order and plan for transitions between each question.

Interview podcasts leave the most room for surprises during recording because you don’t know what your guest will say. If you can, chat with your guest before the official interview. Tell them what to expect and maybe even send the list of questions so they can prepare thoughtful answers.  

Don’t feel you must keep to your script verbatim when recording an interview. Instead, allow flexibility to ask follow-up questions and for your guests to address things they want to discuss. But plan ways to steer the conversation back toward the script. 

Here’s a script template that works well for a guest interview-type podcast show:

Intro music

• Show Introduction
• Guest introduction
• Optional followup question
• Thank the guest, plug website and social handles

Solo shows, like Dan Carlin’s Hardcore History and The Sarah Silverman Podcast, have one host. In Dan Carlin’s Hardcore History , Carlin uses a combination of script formats to dive into his information-heavy topics. On The Sarah Silverman Podcast, Silverman uses a bullet point/improv-type script to discuss societal issues on her own and with guests. 

When creating a show, use whatever script type you’re most comfortable with. Experiment to see what brings out your best as a host. Remember that your script type may change from episode to episode, depending on how comfortable you feel with the topics you’ll discuss. So stay open and don’t get married to any one type of script too soon. 

A good template for a solo show script is:

Show theme song

Sponsor Message

• Supporting point

Co-host show

Co-host shows, such as You’re Wrong About and Just Break Up , feature multiple hosts who chat with one another throughout the episode.

When creating a podcast with someone else, you and your co-host must be on the same page about how structured you’d like your script to be. If you have a strong rapport with your co-host, you can leave room for off-the-cuff banter, but there’s also greater danger in getting off-topic. To stay on track, prepare a script for the big topics and note who’ll speak on what to avoid talking over one another.

Here’s a template for writing your co-host show script:

Host 1 presents topic 1

• Main point (host 1)
• Discussion (host 1 and 2)

Host 2 presents topic 2

• Main point (host 2)

Word-for-word podcast

The most common type of word-for-word podcast is a fiction podcast, like Lore with Aaron Mahnke. Lore explores myths, urban legends, and supernatural phenomena to creep you out and educate you. It’s fully scripted and carefully rehearsed. But Mahnke’s use of a word-for-word format for this subject matter is perfect—it makes the listener feel like he’s sitting in front of a fire telling you a story. 

But nonfiction podcasts can use a word-for-word script, too. The most famous example of this is This American Life, which uses painstakingly scripted narration to tell true stories on a theme. 

Podcast script tips and best practices

Each script type is unique but shares the same best practices.

1. Try delivery notes

Delivery notes improve how you present your podcast's information or scripted content. These notes will indicate what words to emphasize, where to pause, where to laugh, and even where to slow down or speed up in your script. These notes will help you present your script more naturally. 

Here’s an example:

2. Mind your pacing

Pacing isn’t just the speed at which you talk, but also how quickly you reveal information. Go too slow and your audience may lose interest. Go too fast and you may lose them altogether. You want to be like Goldilocks—just right.

That doesn’t mean setting up a metronome to keep the same pace for an entire episode. Just use a pace that makes sense for your topic and format. For instance, if you’re telling scary stories, create suspense by slowing down or speeding up, but always ensure your audience understands you. 

3. Be authentic

There are literally millions of podcasts out there. Chances are, someone else already talks about what you want to talk about. But you have something they don’t that’ll set your podcast apart— you .

It’s tempting to imitate a successful podcaster, but you are unique, and you will make your podcast special. Remember that when writing your scripts.

4. Plan for music and audio

Music and audio clips are essential to bring life and dynamics into a script. You can also use music and audio to create drama, build suspense, or even tug at your listener’s heartstrings. 

Sometimes, music becomes synonymous with a show. Think about the theme song to Friends or Seinfeld’s distinctive bass riff that transitions viewers from one scene to another. 

As you write your script, put in placeholders for music interludes, sound effects, and other audio clips to engage your audience further. 

5. Add as many examples as possible

Podcasting is an audio medium, so be descriptive. Provide examples illustrating your concepts or ideas to add clarity for your listeners. Give various examples so your listeners understand.

Sound like a pro with Descript

Show format, topics, and key components—there are many things to consider when writing a podcast script. Planning is key, but make it sound like you’re freestyling on your show. The templates and tips above will help you create a compelling script.

Then, when you’re ready, Descript’s Podcast Studio will allow you to record, edit, and even publish your podcast . This powerful tool gives podcasters a leg up with features like:

• AI-assisted Overdub
• Filler word removal
• Automatic audio transcription
• Studio Sound

All you have to worry about is creating amazing content. No wonder podcasts with over ten million monthly listeners, like Freakonomics Radio, use Descript. Check out Descript today to get started.

Podcast script FAQs

Do podcasters read scripts.

Yes. Most podcasters work from a script to stay organized, hit all their talking points, and minimize the time spent editing episodes in post-production. But there are many kinds of scripts, like word-for-word, outline, bullet points, etc.

How long should a 15-minute podcast script be?

The length of a podcast script varies, depending on the type of script a podcaster uses. For instance, an outline-type script, could be a single page or notecard. Then a word-for-word 15-minute script would be around 15 pages.

How does a podcast script work?

A podcast script serves as a roadmap for an episode that outlines the content, structure, and flow. It includes the host's introduction, main talking points, interview questions, transitions, and closing remarks. It ensures a cohesive and organized podcast episode while allowing for spontaneity and improvisation.

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Build a Great Review Podcast

Create a review show that tells your listeners about the best movies, music, and books, with insight they can find nowhere else .

Podcasting is perfectly suited for the review format, and such shows became popular quickly. Putting together a review show is straightforward, assuming you do some homework first. When podcasting first got started, I jumped in with the first movie review, commentary, and discussion show, called Reel Reviews—Films Worth Watching ( http://reelreviewsradio.com/ ). While my goal was to talk about great films readily available on DVD, the lessons I learned in producing the show hold true for any review format show.

Using my experience, let’s examine how to produce a great review show.

Talk About What You Know and Enjoy

Roger Ebert is such a mainstay among movie reviewers because you can tell he has a passion for film, and he enjoys talking about it, studying it, and critiquing it. As is often the case, subject matter for which the presenter has enthusiasm can often lead to compelling listening. When setting up a review show, make sure it is a topic about which you can speak with some authority and enthusiasm.

Creating a podcast involves a commitment to your listeners; they are counting on the fact that you will continue to produce shows. If your subject matter is not something that you get excited about, rethink whether you should proceed. In my case, I have been talking about film for years to anyone who was interested. As such, making the transition to a podcast just involved letting a few thousand more people in on the conversation.

Know Your Audience

It is imperative that you clearly define who your audience is. Think about whom you want to attract as listeners and how best to provide the content they will find useful. These decisions will have an impact on the length of your show, what (if any) accompanying material you put with your reviews, and ultimately how you will market the show. This is some of the most critical planning you will do when creating your show. I cannot stress its importance enough.

Have Clear Points to Convey

The secret of a great review show is in the preparation. Think through the major themes and points you want to identify and highlight for your listeners. Is there a theme you can use as a bridge to tie together the individual points? When talking about film, art, or music, this is often an effective method.

Unlike other types of podcasts, review shows have some unique requirements. A review show’s goal is to convey facts and impressions about the review subject. This is where it can get challenging for the podcaster. To ensure that you get all the important points covered, you need to make some choices.

The most important choice you must make is how you will prepare. Let me share what has worked for me. When I first started podcasting, I would outline five or six bullet points I wanted to make sure I covered, and then simply started recording. This proved to be a very natural style for me; I was comfortable and reasonably satisfied with the results. As I continued to produce additional shows, I felt it was important to include more and more detail. I thought this would add to my movie commentary. This culminated in one particular recording that I must have started over 15 times, as I kept getting lost in my rather detailed outline.

That was the breaking point. I tore up the outline, jotted down the five or six bullet points, and ended up recording it with no further hassle. That day, I learned that I am much more comfortable just speaking. If I can create a podcast in which I “talk” to my listeners, I feel that I produce a much more compelling and interesting show. Invariably by using this technique, I always forget to mention something, but my listeners don’t know that, and I have yet to get a complaint about something I didn’t say. While as a podcaster you might be frustrated that you forgot something, the beauty of audio is that it is transitory, and people experience it in a linear fashion. It allows for much more leeway than the written word, where someone can search back and forth.

Of course, there is another option: the scripted show. Some people have been successful with this approach, so it is important to consider. If you are more comfortable being completely prepared, you can script out your entire show. This will ensure that you don’t miss any points. It will also dramatically increase the amount of time required to prepare your show.

If you choose to script your show, it is all the more important to concentrate on your delivery. People are generally turned off if you sound like you are reading. Frankly, if you are reading, you should just post the text. This is why it is important to interject your personality into your presentation. Make sure you accentuate the high points and drive home your conclusions regarding the material you are reviewing.

Not everyone will agree with you, but nothing is worse than a reviewer with no conviction in her opinion. Frankly, some controversy regarding your opinion will foster debate and added attention to your podcast. Right or wrong, you will earn listeners’ respect by being genuine and truthful in your opinion.

Podcasting is an extremely rewarding experience. When running a review show, it is an exciting experience to find out that people have made a decision based on your reviews and opinions. In my case, I get email everyday from people who have rented or purchased the films I discuss in my podcast. For me, that was the whole goal: to discuss and encourage people to see great films.

Great Review Podcasts

Here is how some other review podcasters have gone about making their podcasts stand out.

(Cool) Shite on the Tube.

Mix lots of beer, a few movies, and three Australians, shake well, and you get the (Cool) Shite on the Tube podcast ( http://coolshite.net/ ). Bruce Moyle, Chris Rattray, RDon, and Q-Dog take their knowledge of movies and their ability to sit around and trash films to its logical conclusion as a review show. Their podcast is a vivid illustration of the value of the multihost format, particularly in review shows. The interplay between the hosts gives the podcast its infectious appeal while making it much easier to produce. The fun they have as a group talking about the movies comes through in the show.

The raw and uncut feel comes from the minimal editing and preparation. They watch the movie on Tuesday. Then Bruce cuts a few snippets of audio out of the movie. On Sunday they get together to have a few beers and record the show. They use GarageBand, Audio Hijack Pro [Hack #50] , a cheap amplifier, and a Styrofoam cup to hold the microphone.

They’ve taken most of the feedback they received about the show to heart, and are working on making some improvements.

Overall, the difficulties in producing their show are minor: getting together on time can be tough, and remembering to turn on the microphone is critical. Their advice for review podcasters is to drink, and redo everything a couple of times the first time out.

Adam Kempenaar and Sam Hallgren of the Cinecast movie review podcast ( http://cinecastshow.com/ ) take the buddy film approach to movie reviews. They use the two-person format to feed off of each other’s insight into each film. They don’t script their show too much. They prefer instead to use the conversational tone of the podcast medium to engage themselves and their listeners in a dialog about the film. Sometimes the reviews run in their ideal range of 15 to 20 minutes, but other times they get so caught up in the conversation that time flies and the podcast ends up being much longer.

Adam has been reviewing movies for five years for the Daily Iowan . He was self-conscious at first and would validate his reviews against what other critics were saying. But now he has the confidence to avoid any reviews before he has seen the movie and has settled on his own opinion.

Their advice for potential movie reviewers is to take it seriously . You can be funny, but you should keep it professional. Create a format and write some notes so that it feels like a well-produced show. But more importantly, use your unique perspective to provoke listeners to think about the film’s meaning and to get at what the film was trying to say. Have confidence in your own critique and express it with conviction.

Various and Sundry DVD podcast.

The Various and Sundry DVD podcast ( http://variousandsundry.com/ ) grew out of Augie De Blieck Jr.’s text blog. Each week he would take the listings for the DVDs to be released on Tuesday, and copy and paste the ones that interested him it onto his blog with some of his own comments. It became a huge hit because it gave his listeners a shopping guide to take with them on their Tuesday DVD purchasing trips. It was an easy next logical step to turn his DVD blog into a DVD podcast.

The format is pretty straightforward. He uses TextEdit to fill his show notes with the DVD release list. Then he goes to the Internet Movie Database ( http://imdb.com/ ) to do some research on the films that interest him or his listeners. He is thinking about adding some show format elements, but it’s a commitment of time that he doesn’t have.

On the recording side he keeps it simple. He uses Audacity [Hack #50] and a Sony ECM-MS907 [Hack #13] that hooks into his G5 Power Mac. He uses a stand to keep the microphone steady, and a windscreen to keep the plosives down. He records in one shot, and if he messes up, he just stops, goes back to the beginning of the sentence, and starts again. Then he edits it all down in post-production. He can take up to an hour to get a 5- to 10-minute show to sound right. Once he’s finished editing, he uses the MP3 export in Audacity to build the podcast file, and edits the ID3 tags in iTunes. Then he uploads the file to the server with a hand-coded RSS 2.0 [Hack #37] file.

Through his podcast, he has created a bidirectional conversation with his audience. He has heard from his listeners that his recommendations have encouraged them to try out DVDs they wouldn’t have otherwise. And his listeners have broadened his viewing taste as well.

For the comic-book fans out there, he also has a comics podcast called the Pipeline Comic Book Podcast ( http://comicbookresources.com/rss/ ) that does for comics what his first podcast did for DVDs.

His advice to would-be DVD reviewers is to hold your ground on your opinions, even in the light of negative feedback. And keep your show on a schedule that people can follow predictably, to build your audience.

TheForce.Net.

TheForce.Net ( http://theforce.net/ ) covers everything in the Star Wars universe, including the movies, the games, the books, the action figures, and more. Erik Blythe, having done his own personal podcast, thought The Force Network readers would enjoy a news and commentary podcast dedicated to their favorite topic. He uses Sonic Foundry to record from his Plantronics computer microphone [Hack #12] . Then he mixes down with Sony’s ACID [Hack #50] . The result is around 15 minutes of engaging Star Wars news and opinion.

He starts by laying out each show into three segments: news, commentary, and a featured item. The news is sourced from TheForce.Net site, or through other fan sites. News about the movies must come directly from Lucasfilm press releases. Rumors must have multiple sources. For his feature segments, he does interviews and round-table discussions from Star Wars conventions. He has a scripted intro and outtro [Hack #63] . His outtro segment encourages his listeners to contact him with feedback on the show, which so far has been roundly positive.

The listeners have responded best to the commentary segments. Erik believes this is because he knows what he would like to hear and he uses that to guide the show. He keeps mind of his pacing through the show and is careful not to lose listeners’ attention with dull content. The key, according to Erik, is to keep the listeners’ mind engaged with fresh news and commentary on the Star Wars universe, which provides them with new points of view.

“Adopt a Format for Your Podcast” [Hack #20]

“Mix Multiple Tracks” [Hack #60]

“Grab Audio Legally” [Hack #67]

— Michael W. Geoghegan

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How to Craft the Perfect Podcast Script Using 10 Free Templates

Take a look at the podcast script templates and see which one fits your show the best. Then take that template and fill it out to make your very own podcast script!

March 28, 2024 • About 19 min. read

For this blog post we have created free podcast script templates for you! 😍

If you want, you can go ahead click one of our cool purple, space-themed graphics to download them. Or you can scroll down to the very bottom of the page and see five of them typed out there. ⬇️

But we also want to guide you to maximizing these podcast script templates in the best way possible. That’s why we have also written this blog post to go along with the podcast script templates.

Here is the outline of what we are going to cover:

• What is a Podcast Script?
• Why Have a Podcast Script?

What are the Building Blocks of a Podcast Script?

• How to Write a Good Podcast Script

How Long is a 15 Minute Podcast Script?

• 🥳🥳🥳 FREE PODCAST SCRIPT TEMPLATES 🥳🥳🥳

Ok that’s the outline– Let’s start this guide!

To help you get a better idea of what we mean by a podcast script, and to help you make sure you are putting together an excellent one, first we will explain why they are important and what their general components are. 🧑‍🏫

How to Write a Podcast Script (Plus 10 Free Templates)

A podcast script is a written document that guides your episode recording, supporting your beautiful creation.

Level of Detail

Podcast scripts can include varying levels of detail.

If the content is very complicated or the exact details are important to get right, the script might be word for word what the podcaster will say on the show. You see this often with non-fiction, educational podcasts. 📖

On the other end of the spectrum, if the content is less dense and more conversational, the script will be more like an outline . It will give the show structure, but not have the exact content that the speakers will say. This kind of limited script is often used in the co-host show format podcasts, where there is a lot of banter and ease of conversation.

Many scripts end up somewhere in the middle of these two. For example, podcasts with guest interviews might have scripts that have the exact interview questions written out, but simply leave space for whatever the guest’s answer will be. 📄

Delivery Notes

A podcast script is not just about what you will say, but how you will say it. 📣

This can be as technical as writing out how to pronounce someone’s name on your episode.

It maybe highlighting the key point or points you want to emphasize, including exact phrases that you think are powerful.

Having these kind of notes be part of your podcast script will make your podcast sound more natural, plus it will make it more impactful. 👊

Why have a Podcast Script?

Podcast scripts have a ton of benefits for podcasters. Read on to learn what they are so you can use our podcast script templates fully!

Podcast scripts helps everyone prepare for the show! We know that most podcasters wear a ton of hats and cover a lot of roles. But we have broken up this section by roles to help better explain how podcast scripts help with show prep.

The Producer

A producer needs to know how long to book a studio for an upcoming recording. That may be an actual audio rental studio or just scheduling a slot when your home studio will be somewhat quiet. A script helps the producer judge how long the audio recording will take. The script also helps the producer plan for how much equipment is needed , based on how many guests there are going to be and the format (especially if it is going to be a video episode). 🎙️

The script also helps with content prep. Sometimes it is hard for a producer to convey the research they have done with the episode in a way that the host can easily use it. Even when your producer and your host is the same person (you), it can be hard to take what you have researched and use it as a host. A script helps take that knowledge and turn it into something engaging for the audience.

A podcast script can also be a way to keep the production schedule on track. Knowing the script needs to be done by a certain deadline before the show means that procrastinating is less likely to happen. When it is sent to participants, it is a way of politely saying “hey, remember we have this recording coming up that you need to prepare for!” 📆

To prepare for a show, a good podcast host will always practice before it is time to record. A podcast script makes this possible. It makes it possible for the host to really practice the material. The script also gives them a chance to make changes to anything that does not work just right. ✍️

The Co-Hosts

Just like a host, co-hosts should practice before recording. A podcast script allows this to happen. 📚

It also keeps them on the same page during the preparation process. For example, one co-host can edit the script and then send to the other co-host and say “hey, what do you think of the change I made.”

A script also helps co-hosts with show prep by visually showing if the co-host content balance is off. If one co-host has a lot most speaking lines than another, this problem will show up during the script process and can be fixed then. 👯

A podcast script, especially one with guest interview questions, can help guests prepare for their role in the show. Not only will they be able to prepare for the interview questions, but they will know about how long their answers should be. 😀

Guests can also give valuable feedback after reviewing the script. They might suggest a question that should be added, or a better way for a question to be phrased.

A podcast script also helps guests prepare for the show by calming their nerves . Guests who are not used to doing media interviews can get really anxious about a recording, especially video episodes. That guests’ anxiety can be a huge obstacle to having a good interview and a good show. So calming their nerves through a script is important! 💆

When guests know exactly what to expect, they will be much calmer, creating better audio content. Plus, they will enjoy it more and be more likely to recommend your show to friends! 🤩

Tracking During the Show

The benefits of podcast scripts are not limited to show preparation. They are also incredibly help during production.

Cover All The Important Points

One of the worst feelings after recording a podcast is if you realize you forgot to cover a really important point. Do not let this happen to you! By having your podcast script up in front of you during the show, you can tick through each point to make sure you and your guests have covered them all by the end of the show. ✅

Stay Focused and Keep the Content Powerful

It is really easy for a host to get sucked into rambling. The microphone is on so you start talking and you kind of forget when to stop talking. Rambling is an audience killer though. Your listeners will feel like their time is being wasted. Even if they last the whole episode, they may leave with the feeling that your show is lacking that “umph.”

A podcast script helps you keep from rambling. It helps you stay on message and hit the points that make your audience go “wow.” 😮

A podcast script saves you time during recording. A good script will show how many minutes of content you should produce for each section. You and your guests can use the recording time efficiently and then get on to all the other important things you have to do in your life. The gift of time is a pretty huge benefit! 🥳

Easier to Edit

Finally, you should have a podcast script to make life easier for your editor (who is probably also you).

One of the hardest and most frustrating things for an editor to deal with is when someone is making a point, but gets really ramble-y when doing it. A podcast prevents that. ✋

Also, if you use a podcast script, your editor does not have to somehow create some structure for your show out of the blue in post production. The structure has been pre-planned and executed well. 🏗️

Your editor (you) will thank you (also you).

Ok, so we have convinced you of the benefits of a podcast script.

Now we are going to show you the building blocks of a podcast script. That way, when you see a heading like “segue” in the podcast script outline, you will know what it means and what you to fill in there. 🧱

Here are building block, or terms, you are likely to see in the podcast scripts templates.

A podcast intro sets the stage for the rest of the show. It is important to get right. Also, audiences are pretty used to host’s reading a script during this part so you really can write it out if you want.

Here are the sub-sections of an intro in a podcast script template:

Intro Music 🎵

If you use different intro music for each episode, you may want to list which song you plan on using. If you are using a mixer and playing the song live during your introduction, you definitely want to have the song chosen ahead of time. Even if you are just going to add the song in post production while editing, it can help to list the intro song in the podcast script just so you have that info in an easy to find place.

Podcast Title and Tag Line/Short Description 🔦

This is the first thing you say in your episode, every episode. Write it out for reliability, but after a few episodes even your audience will know it by heart. Listeners love this!

In terms of podcasts, a roadmap is where you want to list the main points what you are going to cover in that episode. You do not need to go in-depth, just give a brief outline so your audience does not feel like they are flying blind.

Guest Intro 🤝

This is the segment meant to hype your listeners up about your guest. List off their relevant achievements, what they are currently doing, and how they tie into what your podcast is about.

Now is not the time to list their social media handles or do any call to action on their part. That will be in the outro.

You can think of a topic like a section. If you think you only have one podcast topic , break that topic down into more narrow topics.

For example, let’s say you are going to talk about the fresh water shortage in Hawaii. Break that down into multiple, digestible topics: 1) History of fresh water usage in Hawaii 2) What has caused the current shortage 3) What needs to be done to fix the problem.

Under each topic, list the main points you want to hit and the supporting data you want to share.

If you are interviewing a guest, each interview question can act as a topic.

Sponsor Message 🤑

Make that money, honey!

If you have a deal to do a host-read ad for a company, you can put the text you are supposed to read on your podcasts here.

If you are going to bake in a separately produced advertisement for in post production, just make sure to leave a natural break here.

Even if you do not have any current promotion contracts, still structure your episode as if you do. In the future you may get a contract and then you can dynamically insert ads into your old episodes.

Not to be confused with a Segway . You do not need a helmet for this one.

A segue is the connector between sections. There might need to be a segue between topics, or maybe a segue between a topic and an ad.

Coming up with a segue on the spot during recording is a great way to stick your foot in your mouth. You may connect two things in a way that is offensive or you may ramble way off course, losing your listeners.

Consider writing out your segues in full. At the very least, put in a few keywords so you remember how you want to make the transition.

Like a roadmap, a recap can help your listeners better comprehend the content of your episode and put their brains at ease. It does not need to summarize everything you have talked about, but giving some kind of wrap-up and closure is helpful.

The podcast outro is the long goodbye from you to your audience. But not too long! It is a way for you to send them on their way to feel positive feelings about your show.

There are a few sub-sections of an outro in a podcast script template:

Thank Co-Host or Guest 🙌

Showing your co-host or guest some love and gratitude at the end of the episode helps you build your podcast community. It is a sure way to end the episode on a good note, no matter how tough the material you covered in the episode was. Plus, it is just good manners.

Call to Action (CTA) 🙏

This is where you ask your listeners to do something. If you have a guest, usually you list a call to action item or two for them as well.

Common calls to action are to:

• Follow and like the podcast on whatever listening platform that people are using (Apple, Spotify, etc.)
• Share the podcast with friends and on social media
• Visit the podcast’s website and follow their social media pages (including YouTube if you do video episodes)
• Donate to help fund the show
• Sign up for the podcast newsletter
• Register for an in-person event the podcast is putting on

Next Episode 😎

Preview what your next episode is going to be about. Let your listeners know when they can expect it to be released. Pump it up a little so they are excited and intrigued.

Just like at the end of a movie, you may want to include credits in the outro. It may be something as simple as a quick thank you to someone who gave you the idea of the podcast topic . If you pulled heavily from published resources for you content, you probably want to list them here as well as in your episode notes. And of course if you are lucky enough to have a full team producers, editors, sound designers , etc then here is the place to give them a shout out.

How to Write a Podcast Script

Now that you have all the building blocks, the question is: How do you actually write the script? 😅

Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!

Natural Voice

When you sit down to turn your podcast script template into a full script, the important part is to write in your own voice. Sometimes it is easy to put too much pressure on yourself and try too hard to sound smart or clever. Just be yourself! 👨‍🎤

For your first draft, just write a stream of conscious if you need to. Just get words down on paper (or computer screens). Don’t worry about being perfect or even good! That’s what editing is for.

Edit, Practice, Edit, Practice

Once you words on paper, then you need to edit. You can wait to edit until you have written all the content for the episode, or you can go section by section. 📑

First, take what you have written down and give it the correct basic structure: Add punctuation, create sentences, organize them to make basic sense.

Then, read that section out loud. Reading your script out loud while editing is critical. You will be able to tell what sounds natural and what does not sound quite right. You will also catch errors in your writing. 📣

Once you have done a solid edit and the section is where you think it should be, practice the section. Not only read it out loud, but read it as if you were recording it. In fact, if you can, record yourself practicing. That way you can listen to the recording carefully and make any more edits needed.

Visualization of Every Step

One of the most common mistakes when writing a script is to leave small, but important parts out. For example, you get so focused on the main content, you forget to map out the small things like segues. 🗺️

To avoid this mistake, visualization recording your show, step by step. What are you going to do and what are you going to say once that podcast microphone starts recording.

Even better, do a full test recording. This will help you catch any small bits of script lines that you might otherwise overlook. 🎙️

As you get more experienced, your brain will get better at remembering every detailed part of the script that is needed. But when you are just starting out, practicing every single small step is super important to writing your script well.

The last thing we’ll cover before giving you free podcast script templates is script length and recording duration. ⏱️

The rule of thumb is that people speak about 150 words per minute. So that means a 15 minute podcast should be about 2,250 written words. How many pages is that? It is about 4.5 pages, single spaced. Or about 9 pages double-spaced.

This all depends on the individual. For example: Don Draper speaks at a different rate than Eeyore, who speaks at a different rate than Midge Maisel. 💅

In terms of duration, also keep in mind that you might want longer pauses between sections. And you will need time for the intro and outro music , plus any host-read sponsor messages . If you are doing a video episode, you may also need to build in time for motion graphics displays.

We definitely sound like a broken wheel by now, but the trick is to practice before you record. Then you will know your own words per minute rate. 🤠

Remember: People tend to speak faster when they are nervous. Don’t let this be you! Practice your pace! 🏃‍♂️

Free Podcast Script Templates, Y’all!

Now that you have read this full guide for writing podcast scripts, you can to pick your favorite podcast scripts templates! Then take them home and fill them out. We made them just for you! Enjoy! 💜

#1 Podcast Script Template: One Host, Nonfiction Storytelling

• Intro music: song title, time code
• Podcast Title and Tagline:
• Roadmap: Today I am going to tell you a story about…
• Segue to Topic 2:
• Sponsor Message
• Reminder segue from Topic 1:
• Segue from Topic 2:
• Recap: Summary, lessons learned
• Call to Action:
• Next episode:
• Outro music: song title, time code

#2 Podcast Script Template: Panel, Discussing Current Events

• Host gives Podcast Title and Tagline:
• Host gives Roadmap:
• Host gives Panelist Introductions:
• Host gives brief description of topic [1 min]:
• Panelist 1 gives take [2 min]:
• Panelist 2 gives take [2 min]:
• Panelist 3 gives take [2 min] :
• Panelist 3 gives take [2 min]:
• Panelist 1 gives take [2 min] :
• Segue to Sponsor Message:
• Panelist 2 gives take [2 min] :
• Host thanks panelists:
• Host gives credits:

#3 Podcast Script Template: One Host Telling Nonfiction Story, with Guest Commentator

• Guest Intro:
• Guest commentary
• Sponsorship Message
• Guest and Host discuss story
• Segue to Outro
• Host thanks Guest
• CTA for Guest
• CTA for Host
• Next Episode
• Outro music: Song Title, Time Code

#4 Podcast Script Template: One Host, How-To

• Roadmap: Today I am going to teach you how to…
• Segue to Sponsor Message and Next Step:
• Step Three:
• Common Mistakes:
• Recap Steps:
• Next Episode:

#5 Podcast Template: Two Hosts, Guest Interview

• Host 1 does Podcast Title and Tagline:
• Host 2 gives Roadmap:
• Host 1 introduces guest:
• Guest gives intro comments
• Host 2 welcomes guest to the show
• Guest Answer [5 min]
• Host 2 segues to next question:
• Host 1 segues to break:
• Sponsorship message
• Guest Answer [10 min]
• Host 2 segues to recap:
• Guest summarizes [2 min]
• Host 2 summarizes:
• Host 2 thanks guest and invites their CTA:
• Host 1 gives CTA
• Host 2 previews next episode:
• Host 1 reads credits

To get the remaining five free podcast script templates , click one of the graphic design boxes to download!

We have worked hard to try to make these podcast script templates with the aim of supporting you! We hope they make your podcasting life easier !

Even if your podcast format does not perfectly fit one of the podcast script templates, or maybe the episode duration is different, hopefully these give you ideas of how to create your own podcast script templates.

And as always, enjoy the podcast journey! 🚀

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How to Write a Horror Podcast

It's spooky season—the perfect time for you to start a horrific podcast. .

Maybe it's just me, but when the calendar turns over into October, I want everything to be terrifying. One of the most fun ways to get scared is from a horror podcast. I grew up telling scary stories around a campfire, and now I get to listen to them in headphones or while driving around. It seems like a natural evolution. 

But how can you make your own horror podcast? And what goes into not just making one, but making it terrifying? 

Today, we're going to take you through coming up with horror podcast ideas, outlining your first season, and some strategies to add sounds to accentuate your storytelling. 

Sound good? Let's get scary. 

Podcasts harken back to the days before film and TV. In fact, they have much more in common with radio dramas. We often think of film and television as visual mediums.

Well, podcasts are auditory mediums. You listen to them and then create the scenes in your imagination. 

So how are we, as storytellers, going to make sure people are painting horrific pictures in their brains? 

Best Horror Podcast Practices 

First off, before you get to record your podcast, you should really write a script for it. I know this seems crazy, but so many people venture into the podcast world and just try to wing it. Don't be one of them. The best podcasts are carefully planned stories. 

Sure, you have people who do interview podcasts and other non-scripted, but horror podcasts are usually stories. And stories have specific beats that take the audience on a journey. 

These beats really matter. You want to pack your episodes with scares. The story should build around those scares. That's why it's so key to find your beats and make sure everything moves forward with them. 

You also want to stay organized with your podcast. I would make a detailed outline that covers how many episodes you have in the season and the big plot points you'll deliver in each episode. You also want to be clear on how long each week's episode will be too. 

Most of these points boil down to you having a detailed plan. And for that, you need a horrific topic. 

Come Up with a Horrific Topic 

What kind of horror genre are you into? People listen to these shows because they want to feel their hearts beating out of control. They want the scare, but also the relief and enjoyment that comes after. Can you imagine turning the lights off, lighting a single candle, and popping one of these podcasts on? 

Okay, you need an idea for a horror podcast. Sometimes, I think it's best to work backward from the elements and then into the topic I want to write about. 

What are some basic elements they might expect when they tune in?

General elements include  ghosts ,  extraterrestrials ,  vampires ,  werewolves , demons,  Satanism ,  evil clowns , gore , torture, vicious animals,  evil witches , monsters,  giant monsters , zombies,  cannibalism ,  psychopaths , and serial killers.

Yes, there's a ton to pick from! We've got a whole list of the subgenres of horror . Work your podcast from there. 

Horror Subgenres 

Horror is such a malleable genre that you can mash it up with almost anything. There are subgenres that involve different kinds of monsters, and there are subgenres that pull in other elements. You can see movies and shows that involve comedy, body, folk history, found footage, Gothic elements, natural elements, slasher, teen, psychological, gore, and many others I'm sure you'll tell me about in the comments.

Here's what you really need to know. There are four main horror areas—killers, monsters, paranormal, and psychological horror . Everything else fits underneath them. 

Once you have your idea, it's time to make an outline. 

Write an Outline for Your Horror Podcast 

When it comes to outlining a podcast, I like to borrow the story map we made for horror movies . Think about how your episodes will space out. You may be able to write a terrifying episode that encompasses each beat of the story. 

The Horror Screenplay Outline:

This was originally designed for a movie, but you can see the beats of a great horror podcast are here. All you need to do is build your writing to be incredibly visual. Paint a picture in every scene and deliver the scares. 

• Unraveling the Terror—Do you have an opening scare that defines the movie? Do you like  Scream ? The opening scene of the  screenplay  sets the tone for the entire story. 
• The Entry Point—Who will be involved in these terrifying escapades and what are they dealing with? In a movie like  Dawn of the Dead , it's the series of scenes where we meet who will inhabit the mall. 
• Before It Goes to Shit—What’s a normal day look like in this world? Think about the way the family gets by in  Poltergeist  before the ghosts show up. 
• The Horror Sets In—What horrific thing sets our characters off on their journey? Nothing is worse than realizing your daughter is possessed as the characters do in  The Exorcist .   
• The Uneasy Path—Everyone is together, what keeps them moving this way? In something like  Godzilla , it's the reason why they deal with the monster at hand? What do they have to gain? 
• Walking Over Broken Glass—How do our heroes deal with the problems as they go? In the  Saw  franchise, this is how people try to get out of the sick traps and hunt Jigsaw. 
• Through the Dark Cave—Do you have a B story? Set that story off on its own now too. B-stories, like the marital tension in  Rosemary's Baby , are great scenes to juxtapose against the horror at hand. 
• Reassess the Terror—You’re in the middle. Is there another way to get out alive? In  Shaun of the Dead , it's when they decide to go to the Winchester. 
• People Are Going to Die—Things begin to fall apart, let the body count rise and show how they deal with it. In  The Descent , this is when the people in the group begin to be picked off one by one. 
• The Fall—The worst thing happens, something so bad you don’t think you can get up. In a horror movie like  The Mist , it's when they are forced outside and surrounded by the actual mist. 
• The Hidden Clue—What do your characters discover that they never saw before? Is there a way out? Something they never realized, like in The   Sixth Sense  when David realizes he's a ghost. 
• Race to the Final (Girl)—They’re up and running no matter what. They can make it! This is the series of scenes that carries us toward your thrilling finale. In  Alien , it's when Ripley is confronted and has to think fast. 
• The Moment of Relief—Did they make it out alive? Has life returned to normal? What does their day feel like with the problem corrected? Think about when  Jaws  finally blows up.
• Where Do We Go From Here?—Show us the world in a new light, hint what’s next. Maybe the killer or monster returns for one final scare! In every horror movie, it feels like there's one last scare. Like in  I Still Know What You Did Last Summer  when it turns out the hook-handed man is under the bed! 

Horror Podcast Opening Script Template 

All right, how should your horror podcast begin?

Famous podcasts usually all have a standard opening that put you in the mood. You can use creepy music, SFX, or other cues to get people in the mood.

We also wanted to deliver you a template to help people get into the story. While we can't walk you through an entire episode, we can get you off to a strong start. 

Horror Podcast Template 

[Opening music and scary sound effects] Intro : Set the stage; what is your podcast about and where did we leave off last time?  Story Beat #1:  1. Set the scene of the story, take us back into the spooky world  2. Introduce the setting  3. What characters are in the scene and what are they trying to do?  4. What scary moment should happen now?  [ Transition ] ( This can be a scary sound, scream, or dialogue a character utters ) Story Beat #2:  1. Introduce the new setting  2. What characters are in the scene and what are they trying to do?  3. What scary moment should happen now?  [Do you have a sponsor? An ad can go here]

[ Transition ] ( This can be a scary sound, scream, or dialogue a character utters ) Story Beat #3:  1. What's the big finish for this episode?  2. Are we in a new place?  3. What characters are in the scene and what are they trying to do?  4. Is there a cliffhanger we can cover for the next week?  Recap and Teaser:  Summarize the main plot points you covered, tease an upcoming episode, etc. [Sponsor message] [Closing music or scary sound effect]

Research Some SFX 

Last on the horror podcast agenda is scary music. You are going to want to find the best royalty-free music and sound effects to improve your storytelling. For that, you should do some Googling. I like Fresilyan studios  and Chosic as well.

You can also look at our resources for royalty-free music .

There are plenty of paid tracks on other sites, but you want to make sure your purchase covers an ongoing podcast and not single use. 

When it comes to SFX, don't go overboard. The sound of an eerie noise or a creaking door is amazing, but you don't need to hit every cue. Sometimes the scariest thing can be your words. 

Summing Up "How to Write a Horror Podcast"

Now that you know how to make a spooky horror podcast, it's time to get out there and make one. Get creepy for a listening audience. Don't forget to add some terrifying sounds and make sure your outline has your season laid out. 

Once you've captured those beats, it's time to torture the audience with your fearsome storytelling techniques. 

We can't wait to listen to what you come up with! 

Go get scary! 

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'Swimming with Butterflies': From Passion Project to Big Brand Film

Karl stetler on his journey to finding funding for his latest film..

Every project starts from somewhere emotionally—and this one started as creative recovery from some pretty severe burnout.

But that has nothing to do with how I was introduced to three times Paralympian Lizzi Smith (now competing in Paris on September 6 and 9—watch via Peacock!), or why Invisalign bought the project.

Let’s start from the beginning.

Finding the Story

I was introduced to Lizzi through a fellow producer and EP who also happened to represent her as an athlete. He’d seen “The Good Wolf” , a short sports documentary I’d shot and directed about six years ago and we’d casually kept in touch, championing each other’s work in the interim.

A great reminder on why building relationships over time is important.

He suggested I meet Lizzi for coffee while in Austin for a film premiere in October 2023—where we had a soulful conversation about her story, what she was wanted to share, and what was important to her. No pressure or expectations or brands.

After mulling over her story and what she wanted to say, I pitched a story direction to her that she connected with, created a deck, and then pitched a few brands on her story and what we could do.

They all said no.

However her story really, really resonated with me as a filmmaker on a number of levels. It was about being defined by more than the thing you do. About finding confidence in yourself. About believing you are enough. All things that continue to challenge me—and I loved how she spoke about facing those challenges.

Her message was exactly what I wanted to share with my 4-year old daughter.

So I said yes.

Developing the Film

Over the next six months I brought in collaborators from previous projects, pitched them on what I wanted to do and why. I outlined a budget I could afford without getting myself in trouble. And that was it. I did not have any plans or real hopes that we’d sell it, I just knew it had been a while since I did something for my soul, and this was it.

So, where did Invisalign come in?

Lizzi is a brand ambassador, and about two weeks before the shoot they reached out to talk about getting some footage of her before the Paralympics—and she said, “oh, we’re actually shooting next week!” I updated my collaborator deck to an Invisalign focused deck, showcasing how the story aligned perfectly with their journey of confidence, and sent it over to my co-EP who knew their team.

We didn’t hear back, I flew out to Austin, and we started filming in May.

Then on day two of our three-day production, Invisalign called while on set to tell us they were interested in the project as is—and to organically add a product shot somewhere in there. Great! Done and done.

I’ll also be transparent that it was not sold for a lot, but enough to give cast and crew a modest pay bump, and to avoid it being a mark against my bank account.

Most importantly, it gave Lizzi’s story a platform — and that was the win I was most excited about.

This is Not Exactly a Business Model

But why did Invisalign say yes?

Because Lizzi’s story "aligned" (#dadjokes) with their core marketing theme of confidence. She was already on their radar. The Invisalign VP of Marketing already loved Lizzi—all entirely independent of this project.

In short: we got lucky.

But… we got lucky because we all took a chance on something we believed in. There was no expectation of a return other than creative fulfillment, the joy of collaboration, and in a practical sense for me. Another project I could pitch with down the road.

This industry is too hard to rely on external success—whether selling pitches to brands, or getting into festivals. I’ve chased that for 14 years, and only glimpsed "success" only a handful of times. Certainly not enough to justify the journey.

Filmmaking is a pie eating contest — so make sure you like what you’re eating.

But what will sustain me, is making films from a place of passion. Films that I love, that mean something to me. That will enable a career I’m happy with.

Filmmaking is not a sprint. And it’s not a marathon.

It’s a part of our life, but just one part. Keep going and enjoy it.

Check out some neat BTS videos from Karl here and here .

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